What is en bloc turn?

An en bloc turn refers to a coordinated turn executed by a group of aircraft flying in close formation. This type of turn is commonly used in military air operations and aerobatic displays. In an en bloc turn, all aircraft in the formation simultaneously roll into the turn, maintain the same bank angle, and adjust their speed to maintain the formation integrity. The lead aircraft initiates the turn, and the other aircraft follow the lead using visual cues and radio communication. The synchronization of the turn is critical to maintaining the safety and precision of the formation. En bloc turns require specialized training, communication, and coordination skills, and they are often used to show the tactical and technical capabilities of military aviation during public events.