AFMAN 11-2T-6V3 · CTW-4 1552.1 · VT-6 brief · P-766

Fuel States

Memorize each state, the trigger value, what action it requires, and whether it's declared to ATC. TraWing-4 sets MIN 200 / EMER 120; USAF (AFMAN) may differ.

Joker

Pre-briefed

TriggerAbove bingo

ActionTermination of current event / phase begins · separation / bug-out

ATCNot declared to ATC

Tells the flight to start packing up while there's still fuel for normal recovery.

Bingo

Baseline ~400 lb (form)

TriggerPre-briefed

ActionReturn to base with normal recovery fuel · Lead uses lowest fuel state for planning

ATCNot declared to ATC

Pre-briefed quantity to return with normal-recovery fuel at planned destination. New states announced via TAC frequency; Wing acknowledges with new value.

Normal Recovery

200 lb at initial or FAF

TriggerComputed

ActionStandard recovery

ATCNot declared

Per AFMAN 11-2T-6V3.

Minimum Fuel

200 lb (Navy) · 150 dual / 200 solo (AFMAN)

TriggerCalculated to land at minimum

ActionAdvise ATC — request expedited handling

ATCDeclared: "Minimum fuel"

Tells ATC you can't accept undue delay. Not an emergency. Repeat to each new ATC facility. CTW-4 1552.1 uses 200 lb.

Emergency Fuel

120 lb (CTW-4) · 100 lb (AFMAN)

TriggerWill land below emergency fuel

ActionDeclare emergency — priority handling

ATCDeclared: "Mayday, fuel" or "Emergency fuel"

Actual emergency. Triggers Mishap Notification if you land with less than fuel reserve.

Formation Fuel States

P-766 §107

In formation, Lead uses the lowest fuel state in the flight for planning. New states announced via TAC frequency; Wing acknowledges with the new value.

JokerPredetermined above bingo · trigger to terminate current maneuver phase

BingoRecover to base with minimum-fuel requirements at planned destination

Divert FuelDiverts allowed to briefed alternate

Radio Call Pattern

Minimum fuel

"(Facility), (callsign), minimum fuel."

Emergency fuel

"Mayday, mayday, mayday — (callsign), emergency fuel, (position), (intentions)."

Repeat fuel status to each new ATC facility once declared.

Study aid only. Not authoritative. Verify every number, limit, and boldface step against current T-6B NATOPS and squadron SOP before flight or evaluation.