What is required for formation flights regarding visibility?

Formation flights require a specific visibility criterion to ensure the safety of all aircraft involved and to maintain the ability to visually separate from one another. A visibility of at least 3 statute miles is mandated because it provides pilots sufficient sight distance to see their formation partners, assess their position in relation to the formation, and avoid potential conflicts with other air traffic.

This visibility requirement also helps pilots react effectively to any unforeseen circumstances that may arise during the flight. In conditions of lower visibility, it becomes more challenging for pilots to maintain proper spacing and situational awareness, increasing the risk of collision.

Meeting the 3 statute miles visibility standard supports the principles of safe flight operation, especially in a coordinated setup like formation flying, where pilots depend on visual cues both for maintaining formation as well as for overall navigation and interaction with the airspace.