360 Overhead

The 360 Overhead

Definition: A method of landing a formation in which the formation flies at pattern speed and pattern altitude until they are over the touchdown zone. Then, a "break" is done, usually towards the side of the standard traffic pattern (but well inside the downwind leg), and the planes spiral quickly down to land in very close sequence. In the military, the formation usually flies a straight in approach called an "initial." In the civilian world, the formation enters the standard traffic pattern just like everyone else. You will often hear the upwind leg to the pitchout point called an initial.

Advantages

Decreased radio congestion. The leader makes all radio calls for the entire formation.
Increase visibility. It's lots easier to see a formation than individual airplanes!
Less disruption of the pattern. A properly timed 360 overhead will take much less time than that needed for each airplane to enter the landing pattern individually!

Timing
Consider the following:

In the busy pattern of an uncontrolled airport, a plane lands about every 45-60 seconds.
Most of us take at least 90 seconds to fly from midfield downwind to 1/2 mile final.
From the start of a pitchout "over the numbers" until the leader's touchdown is about 50 seconds.
A flight of four can be down and clear in 90 seconds from the start of a pitchout.
Therefore, the most efficient spacing for a four-ship formation in the pattern would be to start the pitchout as the preceding plane is on short final. There is no spacing conflict with following traffic if they are no further along than approximately midfield downwind.
Perfect spacing!
The Aerosafe Article has a general discussion of the 360 Overhead and the Fly-by Brief has more about timing issues with larger formations.

Blackjack History Formation Glossary Formation Types Photo Album

Aerosafe Article Fly-by Brief Van's Aircraft Co.

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