Debrief

The flight members will assemble for the debrief at the appointed time and place. The goal of the debrief is to improve safety, performance, communication, and understanding; it is an important learning phase of the flight. Be open to comments; don't be defensive.

Lead will direct the debrief. The debrief should be instructional with emphasis placed on the "what, why and how":

All aspects of the flight are critiqued. The flight leader will ask for input from the individual flight members. Lead cannot possibly observe every single aspect of the entire flight so it is important to hear everyone's perspective. Make sure all questions are answered and uncertainties are resolved. Although seldom will a formation flight go as well as hoped, learning will always take place.

A suggested format for the debrief is:
  • Lead goes first through each segment of the flight
  • Passes to wings by number, to cover things left out
    • First call safeties on yourself
    • Then critique the rest of the flight

Be thorough - good and bad.

Note: In some formation flights, there will be an extra role of Airboss. The Airboss is not necessarily the Lead in the formation (and may not even fly in the formation), but is someone who is very experienced and is familiar with the formation pilots. The Airboss may decide who flies what position and what sequence is to be flown. The Airboss may conduct the briefing or debriefing, or may elect for the Lead pilot to do so.