At 06:25 AM 3/27/98 -0600, you wrote: >Dave, Percy, Stewart, etc: > >I too would be interested in hearing more about formation flying and the techniques applicable. I >have limited airtime, and less time in the coupe, and don't plan to do any formation flying >(closer than a mile apart) in the forseeable future. In fact, knowing the technique and the >pitfalls will more likely keep me from getting sucked into such an adventure with others unskilled >in the art. There are lots of pilots, including several coupers, in my area that fly together-- >although not in formation per se. So I encourage all of those with experience, whether in coupes >or not, to express their experiences and knowledge. Even hearing differing views is helpful to us >neophites. I'm sure that I am not the only one to appreciate Dave's advice and the responses. >Thanks. > >Ken Doyle >Springfield, Mo >Alon N5477E > Ken, do not get sucked into the thought that a big separation (1 mile) is safer, it is too easy to loose visual contact then you are BIG trouble. Second if you encounter other traffic, your traffic may only spot one of you and not see the other because of keeping an eye on his traffic. You are far safer at 100-150 feet separation. IF you are really concerned about you ability to watch your lead then fall into more of a trail position, just be sure to stay offset to the side. When I need to concentrate on something other than the back of Bill's head like do a little sight seeing I fall aft 100-150 but off set about a wing span. If bill was to stop in mid air I would go past him with about 5-10 between wingtips. This way you have him in your peripheral vision when you are looking around. He is never out of your sight and he can still look over his shoulder and see you. Do not believe that the same way, same day group flight is safe. I've personally been witness to several near midairs with people doing that. The farther you get apart the greater the chance of loosing visual contact. If you doubt you ability to keep your aircraft within 100-150 feet of a given point then you must land on a very wide runway. Formation does not mean sitting there with your lead/wingman's wingtip 4 feet from your nose, it is a position held so that everyone knows where the other is. Formation flight always conjures up visions of the Blue Angles or something of that nature, just isn't the case. I will be preparing a more detailed instruction set and get it posted over the next few days
Dave 41 Charlie Dave's Ercoupe Page http://www.flash.net/~dmprosvc/dave
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