Thanks, D-IFF!
Nice and sunny where you are?
Regarding the Spam Navy bolleaux of 'observation' and 'reform', this is the sort of thing which seems so stupid:
Observation Position (Fixed Wing Only)
The initial formation position for a receiver joining a tanker. This is normally echelon left for all receivers. So why not call it echelon left?
a. Drogue Equipped Tanker
(1). Availability of Observers. Refer to the tanker’s National Annex to determine if an observer is located in the rear of the aircraft.
(2). Without Refuelling Observers. Receivers should initially be co-altitude with the tanker, at least one receiver wingspan outboard of the tanker wingtip and well forward, to be observed and identified by the tanker pilots.
(3). With Refuelling Observers. The observation position for fixed wing aircraft is stepped down, aft of the tanker wingline and one receiver wingspan outboard of the tanker wing.
So, take your copy of ATP-56B with you and look up the crew disposition of each tanker...? Why not just standardise on (2)?
Oh well, more work to do to see which particular wheel has been re-invented this time, I guess....
By the way, I hear your new jet is delayed awaiting a 'more robust mission system'? At least that's what
Flight International stated. Sir only needs to ask....
