FAST Formation Standards Scott “Gomez” Glaser 26 FEB 15

Standards  Some say:  Hey we’re just civilians we don’t need all this rigid military stuff…  This is just a hobby. We’re not professionals.  Really…

Hobby?  We are not professionals  True – in the sense that we do not get paid  False - in the sense that we do not does not require 100% commitment

Civilian Pilot. No Formation Training. Dave Zweigle 1967 – 2009 Survived by Wife Julie and 2 Children 3 Ship L-29 Flight 4 th of July Parade

Who’s Responsible  WE ARE!!!  You are responsible for your  Abilities  Proficiency  Safety  We are largely self policing  Exception – Airshows  How to maintain high performance and safety? STANDARDS!!!!

Hot Spots  Maintaining Professional Standards  Lead Responsibilities  Double Check

Standards  We strive for military precision  However we have reduced: ① Missions ② Resources  Hence, we need to scope our mission to our resources. Basic Formation -> FAST!!!

Military Experience  FAST exists to provide two overarching things: ① Formation training ② A common protocol  Those with Military experience:  Don’t need #1  #2 make sure everyone is on the same page!

Formation Discipline  Keeps everyone on the same page  Everyone knows what to expect and what is expected of them  Allows all members to work together

10 Wing Pilot’s Responsibilities  Follow and take direction from Lead  Maintain position  Work to improve formation skills  Maintain formation discipline  Provide Mutual Support

Leads Pilots

12 All Flight Lead Pilot’s Responsibilities  Safe conduct of formation flight  Situational awareness  Above average knowledge of the aircraft, its systems and performance limitations  Knowledge of the airspace and ATC environment  Knowledge of Wing Pilots’ qualifications and limitations  Operational techniques to smoothly and safely lead a flight

13 FAST Lead Pilot’s Responsibilities  Selection of Wing Pilots to fly in flight  Verify credentials  Verify condition to fly  Verify currency  Verify competency in type  Verify aircraft is airworthy  Verify all pilots have safety equipment

Leads Pilots  Only should be leading formations activities at events.  Have a responsibility to:  Educate Air Bosses and FAA personnel  Step up to lead flights  Prevent Wing Pilots from overstepping their abilities.

Leads Pilots  Only should be leading formations activities at events.  Have a responsibility to:  Educate Air Bosses and FAA personnel  Step up to lead flights  Prevent Wing Pilots from overstepping their abilities.

Lead Pilots Must Understand  Condition and operating Limitations of every aircraft in the flight  Planned route and holding areas  Air show waivers do not reduce our responsibility to avoid flight over Densely Populated Areas.  Each Experimental Jet is a unique aircraft and many have very unique Operating Limitations. He or she is responsible for every pilot and every aircraft in the flight!

Leads – Mass Formations  Mass Formation > than a flight of four aircraft  Presents many new challenges.  MUST BE PRACTICED!!!  First time shouldn't be stepping up at an air show in front of a crowd!!!

Forms  Gotta do it for standardization  REQUIRED!!! – Especially FPR’s  CJAA Forms are the most appropriate for our organization.  If you’re unsure – ask!

Thank You  Scott T. Glaser  FAST & CJAA Trained Instructor Pilot  Flight Research, Inc and International Flight Test Institute

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