Formation Flight Question?

[Serge Byakov]

just a quickie!!

Formation flight, is it as simple as requesting formation flight from ATC or is there paperwork that needs to be done? Endorsements to be had?

 

[Dana]

No endorsements out paperwork, just agreement between all pilots involved. ATC not involved at all, unless you're in class B, C, or D airspace, and then you just call in as "flight of two" (or whatever number).

 

[Salty]

Do you mean flight following rather than formation flight?

 

[flyingron]

Well, it is always good to have some actual training before you randomly go out to form up on someone. I got some real nice formation training from Snowbird 10 last summer at Oshkosh.

But as far as legalities go, the only ones really are 91.111(b): PICs must agree and (c): no carrying passengers for hire.

Operationally, the lead ship calls in as flight of n. ATC may or may not want the wingmen to turn off their transponders (usually they do).

 

[Mistake Not...]

Mooney Caravan Formation Guide https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&...xtb29uZXljYXJhdmFufGd4OjIxYjFhOGE0N2NlOGI0MGM

Lots of apparently good info on flying formation. Someday maybe I'll take the class and fly into OSH.

 

[Velocity173]

Gotta be talking about flight following.

For formation flight, as Ron pointed out, 91.111. Notify ATC you're a "flight of (number) (type aircraft)." For VFR they generally don't increase any separation. For IFR, they'll add a mile to standard sep. Most civ aircraft aren't flying formation IFR though.

 

[gismo]

just a quickie!!

Formation flight, is it as simple as requesting formation flight from ATC or is there paperwork that needs to be done? Endorsements to be had?

The only situation where something more than just the intent/agreement to fly multiple planes in close proximity is legally required is if you want to fly formation in what's called "waivered airspace". An example would be doing a fly-by (in formation) at Oshkosh.

 

[Dalyup]

Formation flight is as easy a stating the flight.
But, a huge caveat, do not try flying form without specific ground and air training from an experienced pilot/instructor.
Preferably from an armed services pilot. They know what they're doing, especially the UPT instructors.