Randy Haskin wrote:
Holy smokes!
Formation flying is serious business, folks, and this is precisely why.
That video should be required viewing for all formation pilots...with particular focus toward deconfliction responsibilities between flight leads and wingmen when maneuvering (like the pitch up/pitch out being performed). I know I'm going to show it to my USAF T-38 students when we're in the initial formation phase in the future...
Post collision, looks like some good flying on the part of both pilots. Extremely quick actions on the part of the Mustang pilot to bail out in that amount of time, too!
As has been said, metal can be replaced but people can't. Just like with Liberty Belle, this one is a 'happy ending' IMHO.
Just viewed several clips of this accident and we're discussing it now on the display safety network. Pending further briefing and revelations our collective thoughts at this point are;
Breaks from initial, especially involving dissimilar aircraft from formations other than Echelon with lead on the break side pose special problems requiring careful attention not only in flight but in the pre-flight brief.
In this case, the break appeared to involve a severe timing issue, coupled with differential g producing individualized turn rate and radius resulting in a post break maneuvering sequence with all aircraft out of plane in the break. Obviously not a good situation.
These pilots were extremely lucky.
This has been a VERY bad season thus far. It's time for the entire industry to take a hard look at safety. Some changes are definitely indicated.
Dudley Henriques
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That particular Mustang was gorgeous after arriving in Germany. They must all be heart broken at the loss of the Mustang, yet besides themselves with joy that the pilot got out.
