9.18. Lead Changes

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9.18.1. Objective. In-flight formation position change.

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9.18.2. Description. Number 1 and number 2 exchange formation positions. As previously explained, the designated flight lead retains responsibility and authority throughout the mission. That role is not affected by a lead change.

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9.18.3. Procedure. Lead changes can be made with the formation in many flight attitudes. Number 1 can call or signal for the lead change. Number 2 acknowledges the lead change and becomes the new number 1 regardless of the method of lead transfer (visual signal or radio call). If number 1 uses a radio call to initiate the lead change, the new number 1 accepts the number 1 position with a radio call. If the old number 1 uses a visual signal, the new number 1 accepts the number 1 position with a head nod.

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9.18.3.1. Lead changes should be expeditious to minimize the time without a leader actively clearing for the formation. If limited visibility is an issue, use the radio to execute the lead change.

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9.18.3.2. When a lead change is initiated from fingertip, number 2 moves out and forward to ensure wingtip separation. Number 2 accepts the lead after reaching a position abeam number 1 and immediately assumes responsibility as the new number 1. The old number 1 assumes number 2’s responsibilities. Unless changed by the new number 1, the formation remains in the position from which the lead change was initiated. For example, if the lead change was initiated from route, the flight remains in route.

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9.18.3.3. The new number 1 turns on the TAS and switches the transponder to ALT after assuming the number 1 position. The new number 2 will turn off the TAS and switch the transponder to STBY after ensuring the new number 1 has turned TAS on and transponder to ALT. Wingman consideration dictates that after completing the lead change, the new number 1 utilizes a power setting that allows the new number 2 to stabilize in the assigned position.

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9.18.3.4. Nav Lead. Procedures for a Nav lead change during the BD check are the same as a standard lead change, with the exception that the number 1 aircraft maintains control of the radios, squawk, and TAS while inspecting the number 2 aircraft. The aircraft in the Nav lead position (the aircraft being inspected) must clear for the formation and comply with all clearances.

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