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Preparation
Formation flying is a demanding, disciplined, and rewarding activity. It demands both knowledge of procedures and skill in piloting the aircraft. It should not be attempted without proper training. This clinic will teach you all the basics you need in order to be safe and continue the learning process. In order to be prepared for this clinic, you must verify you can address all requirements and review various written reference materials.
Pilot and Aircraft Requirements
- EXCELLENT stick and rudder skills, and mastery of your
airplane
- Generally, we expect at least 100 hours logged in RVs. We are teaching formation, not basic flying skills or transition!
- Comfortable maneuvering your airplane to 60 degrees of bank
and +/- 30 degrees of pitch
- Aerobatic experience is useful but not required
- Current medical certificate and flight review
- Proof of liability insurance with $1M coverage minimum
- Airworthy aircraft in perfect working order
- Current annual/condition inspection
- Documents on board (airworthiness, registration, operating limitations, weight & balance, etc.)
- Tires and brakes in excellent condition
- Pilots not approved for solo formation flying must have
aircraft with stick, throttle and rudder controls accessible to
an accompanying safety pilot
- Vernier throttles (button locking style) discouraged, as it can interfere with rapid throttle changes often needed in formation
- Kneeboard/pad & pens for taking notes, writing down frequencies, etc. during briefings
- Turf anchors (i.e. The Claw) and suitable chains or ropes for off-ramp tiedown
- Good attitude! Ability to accept criticism in a positive manner. Check your ego at the door... pick it back up on the way to the bar!
Reference Materials - acquire and study the following BEFORE the clinic
- FFI
Formation Guide - REQUIRED
- This is the primary reference document for RV formation flight conducted to FFI standards
- FFI Program
Manual - REQUIRED
- Even if not seeking FFI qualification, the manual is a good source of information regarding formation history, wingman and lead roles, and formation procedures
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West Coast Formation Training Guide 1.1 - OPTIONAL
- Methodology and flow for training a new formation pilot through to airshow checkride qualification