Photo: Operation
Migration
Several
Aircraft Work Together
A
tiny fleet of planes is ready. The day's lead pilot
flies the ultralight that launches with the birds. The chase pilots
fly their ultralights behind. They help any birds that get tired
or break away. How do the pilots know when a bird is tired
and might drop out? What might be some signs?
A faster scout plane may fly ahead. The scout makes
sure the next stopover site is free of people or animals. Finally,
the top
cover pilot flies
a fast little Cessna. This pilot talks with air traffic controllers
to clear the way for the birds and pilots.