How is the vertical spacing in route formation characterized?

In route formation, the vertical positioning of aircraft is typically characterized as being level with the lead aircraft. This means that the wingman or following aircraft maintains the same altitude as the lead. This formation technique is crucial for maintaining visual contact, facilitating communication, and ensuring effective coordination between aircraft. Being level with the lead allows wingmen the ability to respond quickly to changes in formation, assists in maintaining situational awareness, and is essential for ensuring safety during flight, particularly in tactical scenarios.

While other altitudes might be employed in different flight formations or tactical situations, maintaining a level altitude relative to the lead aircraft is standard for route formation. This allows the wingman to keep the lead within their field of vision, thereby improving flight cohesiveness and minimizing the risk of mid-air collisions.