What is one of wing's main responsibilities during a formation flight?

During a formation flight, one of the primary responsibilities of the wing (the pilot in the trailing position) is to maintain visual contact with the lead aircraft, often referred to as number one. This is crucial for ensuring the safety and integrity of the formation. Keeping number one in sight allows the wing to replicate the lead's maneuvers accurately, respond appropriately to changes in the lead's flight path, and maintain proper spacing between aircraft.

Maintaining visual contact is essential for coordination and communication within the formation. The wing must be aware of the lead's actions, which can include changes in speed, altitude, or direction, to ensure that the formation remains cohesive and operates safely. Properly managing this visual reference helps prevent collisions and maintains the overall discipline necessary for a successful formation flight.

While calling out air traffic, performing fuel management, and leading the formation are also important tasks in different contexts, they do not reflect the immediate responsibility of the wing during formation flying. The emphasis is on maintaining sight of the lead, which directly impacts the flight's effectiveness and safety.