Until when does number 2 maintain stack level spacing on a wing takeoff?

In a wing takeoff formation, number 2 maintains stack level spacing until the gear and flaps are raised and the after takeoff checklist is complete. This is critical for maintaining proper formation and ensuring safety during the initial climb phase after takeoff. The reasoning behind this is to allow number 2 to keep visual contact with number 1 and adjust their position accordingly while also managing their aircraft's performance and configuration.

Keeping the stack level spacing during this stage ensures that the formation remains aligned and compact, which is essential for maintaining control and coordination until all aircraft have configured their systems for climb. Once the checklist is complete, the formation can safely transition to other phases, allowing number 2 to adjust their positioning for optimal formation flying in the next stages of flight.