9.45. Airborne Emergencies (General). Maintain formation integrity to the maximum extent possible during airborne emergencies. Mutual support is one of the primary reasons for formation flight. If either member of the formation must return to the airfield prematurely, the other aircraft normally returns and provides assistance. The flight lead may make exceptions to this if the problem is minor and the airfield is in sight or if the weather conditions would complicate a safe formation return. If an aircraft malfunction occurs while in fingertip, increase aircraft separation before handling the emergency if weather allows. The formation member with an abnormal situation advises other members in the formation of the problem, intentions, and assistance required. In VMC, without engine problems, the emergency aircraft generally leads back to a straight-in. In IMC, the emergency aircraft generally leads back to an instrument approach. Modify as appropriate based on the type of problem (e.g., a PEL may be the best recovery option).

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9.45.1. Number 1. When a malfunction is discovered, call KIO, and inform number 2 of the problem as soon as practical. In general, the aircraft with a malfunction should be given the number 1 position. This allows the affected aircraft to handle the emergency without the requirement to maintain position. The number 1 position should be offered three times: (1) when the emergency occurs, (2) on recovery when below the weather and able to navigate VFR to the field, and (3) when on final with the airfield in sight. Except in IMC, avoid flying closer than route formation as number 2. If number 2 refuses the number 1 position at any time, offer it at each successive point as described above.

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9.45.2. Number 2. When a malfunction is discovered, call KIO, and inform number 1 of the problem as soon as practical. Normally, take the number 1 position when offered if able to communicate and navigate. Generally, avoid flying in the number 2 position with an emergency. If the situation dictates flying as number 2, avoid flying closer than route spacing when possible.

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