14:30 Mar 26, 2015
The smallest unit of formation is called a section and consists of one leader and one wingman. Two sections flying together are called a division. The echelon, with all wingmen on one side and a bit behind the leader, is one popular formation. In line abreast, or wall formation, all the planes are equally far forward, in line with the leader. A formation with equal numbers of wingmen on either side of the leader is called a vic, or a vee. An aircraft flying directly under and behind the leader is “in trail,” or in the slot position. The diamond formation, with one airplane in the slot and one on each side of the leader, is a particularly popular display formation. Finger four, with four planes spaced like fingers on a hand, one on one side of the leader and two on the other side, is a popular combat formation. |