Summary: Information film about the principles of formation flying.
Description: Reel one: “Introduction”: Communications between aircraft, identification of section leaders aircraft and other principles of flying in formation during combat. V formation described, line abreast, echelon starboard/right, return to “vic”, lines astern. Composition of four or more sections into squadron formation also difference bewtween squadron flights vic formation and Squadron Vic, which comprises in the case of 12 aircraft, one Vic and three echelons. Squadron flights astern explained. Wing formation explained, wing squadron astern is preferred formation for protection from enemy fire.
Reel two: Comparison with army marching on parade with each unit in place and sticking to it. “Station keeping” applies equally well to formation flying. Single engine aircraft distance is one half the aeroplane's span to the next aircraft, line astern is one whole span apart. Twin or multiengined aircraft distance is one whole span for vic, line astern or echelon. Distance between sections is one and a quarter span of a section for single and multiengined aircraft.
Reel three: “Instruction in formation flying”: Airspeed Oxfords taxiing out (AT738, AP391, X7068). Correct position for formation take-off and pre-take off checks – TMPFF 'ritual' (Trim and tighten throttle, mixture, pitch, fuel, flaps), correct position for formation flying in order to avoid slipstream and observe leaders hand signals should no radio be in use. Maintaining position in formation.
Reel four: Executing turns in formation, leader signals turn direction and the aircraft on inside of turn throttles back and adjusts position with rudder and bank – outside of turn opposite occurs – open throttle and bank and rudder to maintain station. Change of leader so all in formation can practice leading (N6345) – correct method to change position. Formation landing procedure. (X6848, BG158?, ED125)
Alternative Title:
Colour:B&W
Digitised:
Object_Number:AMY 152
Sound:Sound
Access Conditions:
Featured Period:
Production Date:1944
Production Country: GB
Production Details: ROYAL AIR FORCE (Production sponsor)
GB Instructional (Production company)
