In article ,
Cub Driver wrote:

Here at Spruce Creek, we do initial at or below pattern altitude and
perform either a level turn break or a "popup" break, to shed speed,
followed by a tight pattern.

You know, it would help me (and perhaps others) if somebody explained
what a "break" was. I've never done formation flying, nor do I intend
to, but if it's part of your landing drill, perhaps I should know
about it.

all the best -- Dan Ford
email:

see the Warbird's Forum at www.warbirdforum.com
and the Piper Cub Forum at www.pipercubforum.com

The break is where the flight leadre breaks up the formation for
landing. It is generally overhead the airport, flying down the active
runway heading, with a 45 deg banked turn to the downwind.

Spacing of the break is by mutual agreement of the pilots within a
flight -- usually from 1 to 4 seconds. As each plane breaks, the plane
remaining is responsible for making sure that he (and those following)
have the proper spacing with other traffic.

This procedure allows the flight leader a good view of other traffic
inside and approaching the traffic pattern. IMHO, a descending break
puts traffic in the ground clutter and makes it difficult to see. It
also impairs slowing down higher-performance aircraft which have
restricted gear speeds.