LESSON 4 

Air to Air Refueling 

Approx. Time 1.5 Hours 

Lesson Requirements: Lesson 3 Complete 

Lesson Type: One-on-One 

 

Description:  

This Lesson will begin with the Instructor and Student departing an airfield and will rendezvous with the nearest tanker. Enroute the Instructor will introduce the FPAS system and explain its functionality. The Student will utilize Nav-aids to locate the tanker. Instructor will discuss the importance of tanker etiquette and Student will attempt to refuel.  

 

Task: 

Student leads flight to rendezvous to the Tanker. 

 

Instructor will ensure Student depart with as much fuel as possible.  

-Bring multiple fuel tanks. 

 

Student should minimize the use of external maps as much as possible and rely on TCN and information listed in the briefing i.e. TCN and radio station. 

 

Instructor will ensure that the Student understands the use of the “DCS radio menu” to properly hail the Tanker. 

 

Instructor will discuss how to interpret the FPAS with Student while enroute. 

 

Instructor will discuss and require student complete a FPAS Climb. 

 

Instructor will teach Student how to interpret the information of the FPAS. 

 

-Instructor will do this during the FPAS climb. 

 

Instructor will discuss, demonstrate and enforce Tanker Etiquette 

At Ten Miles DME Instructor will take lead of the flight and join the tanker. 

Once Rejoined, Student will fly left echelon in formation to observe the Instructor’s demonstration.   

 

Instructor will Demonstrate the following: 

 

-Port Side Observation 

 

-Transitioning  

 

-Refueling 

 

-Starboard Side Reform 

 

-Departure  

 

 

Student will attempt AAR. 

 

Instructor will position themselves appropriately to observe and make corrections as needed. 

 

Instructor will ensure Student will begin the attempt in Port Side Observation 

 

-Instructor will begin a 40 Minute Timer. 

 

-Instructor will enforce a mandatory break at 20 minute mark. 

Once 40 minutes have elapsed, the Student regardless of success, will transition to Starboard Side Reform. 

 

Student and Instructor will depart the formation and return to base. 

 

Student completes the Lesson after Landing. 

 

Standard:  

 

Student must lead a flight to rendezvous with the Tanker. Student must be able to interpret and utilize the FPAS menu.

 

Student must understand and demonstrate tanker etiquette. Student must successfully refuel a minimum of 7000 lbs..