Federal Aviation Regulations Practice Test

Which of the following conditions does NOT allow operating an aircraft in formation flight?

1. Prior arrangement with each pilot in command

2. Flying with a designated lead aircraft

3. Notifying the local FSDO

4. Ensuring adequate spacing between aircraft

The correct answer is: Notifying the local FSDO

Operating an aircraft in formation flight involves several specific conditions that must be met for safety and legal compliance. The correct choice indicates that notifying the local Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) is not a requirement for conducting formation flight. Formation flight is governed by regulations that require a prior arrangement with other pilots involved, ensuring that a designated lead aircraft is established, and maintaining adequate spacing between the aircraft to prevent collisions. While notifying the FSDO might be a good practice for certain operations or maneuvers, it is not a mandated condition that must be fulfilled to engage in formation flying. Therefore, the absence of a requirement to notify the local FSDO distinguishes it from the other options, which outline essential, regulatory stipulations necessary for safely and legally conducting formation flight.