What is a Formation Endorsement in Australia?



A formation endorsement allows a pilot to operate an aircraft in close proximity with one or more other aircraft under approved procedures. It’s an additional qualification added to your existing pilot licence.


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Do I need a specific licence before starting formation training?



No licence is needed to start and conduct the training. Pilots do however need a license to do a solo formation flight unless approved by the school.


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How many hours of training are required for a formation endorsement?



There is no set minimum flight time mandated by CASA for a Formation Endorsement. However, UPRT Australia offers one of the most comprehensive formation training programs in the country, designed to exceed basic requirements and give pilots real confidence in close formation flying.


Our Formation Endorsement course includes dedicated ground briefings and 10 structured training flights. During the course, you will learn:

  • Basic formation flying techniques
  • Station keeping
  • Straight and level flight in formation
  • Formation turns
  • Bugging out and safe separation
  • Break-offs and rejoins
  • Circuits in formation
  • Emergency procedures

You will also develop leadership and communication skills by learning how to:

  • Lead a formation
  • Fly as a wingman
  • Conduct a professional formation brief and debrief

This training is ideal for pilots who want safe, high-quality formation experience with expert instructors and a structured syllabus.


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What aircraft is used for formation training at your school?



UPRT Australia conducts formation training using Grob aircraft and Decathlons, depending on the training requirements and pilot experience. Pilots may also complete their Formation Endorsement in their own aircraft, provided it meets safety and performance requirements set by our instructors.


To train in one of our aircraft, you must:

  • Hold a current tailwheel endorsement if wanting to do the endorsement in our Super Decathlons.
  • Be recent and current on type

If you’d like to use your own aircraft for formation training, we can assess its suitability and ensure it meets the operational standards for formation flight. This flexibility allows pilots to train in the aircraft they’re most comfortable with while still receiving structured, high-quality formation instruction.


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Is formation flying dangerous?



When taught correctly in a suitable aircraft, formation flying is safe. Our instructors are highly experienced and follow strict briefings, separation procedures, and risk controls to ensure safety at every stage.


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Can formation endorsement training include aerobatics?



No. Formation Aerobatics is a separate endorsement. The basic formation endorsement does not include aerobatics. If you would like information about our aerobatics training, please click here.


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How do I maintain a formation endorsement once I’ve completed it?



Currency is maintained by completing regular formation flights and proficiency checks. Many pilots refresh skills annually with a qualified instructor.


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Why is formation training valuable outside of airshows?



Formation skills improve precision, spatial awareness, and aircraft control. These competencies transfer to tailwheel, aerobatics, coaching, display flying, and operations requiring coordination with other aircraft.


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How do I book formation endorsement training?



Contact us directly to discuss your flight experience, preferred dates. We can tailor the course to suit recreational, display, aerobatic or professional pathways.


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