To formate is to maneuver an aircraft into a structured, coordinated position relative to a lead aircraft. Pilots must match speed, altitude, and heading precisely while anticipating the leader's movements. It requires constant throttle adjustments and visual reference to maintain safe separation during military missions, aerial refueling, or airshows.
Heard on the job
We'll depart as a flight of two and formate on the tanker at flight level two-four-zero.