Netters: The following if from a High School alum of mine and is a Retired USAF F-111 Wing Commander that flew a Restored AT-6 on the air show circuit. I thought I would fwd his comments along as I thought that they would be of interest to the group on the subject of "Formation Flying" and its hazards.
The picture mentioned is not attached but I can & will forward it on request Donald F. Lively Burlington IA 52601 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Hi Everyone, As you probably know, I have taught and flown formation since 1965. I am also a FAA/FAST (Formation & Safety Training) check pilot. I can give check rides in any aircraft but limit it to trainer type (T-6, T-34, T-28 and so on). I just had a pilot that was recommended for a T-6 check ride two weeks ago. I gave his a two hour oral and then flew with him. He didn't pass the ride. We had a 4-ship flight and he had to fly both #2 and #4. #4 is where he had all of his problems. Even though I sold my T6, I am presently on three other T-6s insurance and fly the planes. I have guys wanting to join up with me and fly formation. If they haven't had the training they don't get near me. Remember, there have been many lives lost in aerial photo shoots. Those are very dangerous formations to fly if you don't know what you are doing and most don't. I have attached a photo of me leading a two ship formation flight at an airshow last summer. I am in 92897. Notice there are no passengers because the FAA will not allow them during airshows. If a plane goes down then there is only one death instead of two. Fly Safely! Ed Huber 24961 Kolstad Loop Elbert, CO 80106-9512 Home: 303-648-3718
