JP 3-50 National Search and Rescue Manual Vol I - US Navy

1. Procedure Turn Escort Pattern. The escort will proceed on
track in front of the helicopter, not to exceed the visual
range of the helicopter. Upon notification from the
helicopter, the escort will make a procedure turn and return
to the helicopters position. Altitude of the escort will
normally be 300 to 500 feet higher than the escorted helicopter.
This type of escort gives the maximum navigation assistance.
2. Dogleg Escort Pattern. The escort normally flies 300 to 500
feet above and with legs 45 degrees alternately to the left
and right side of the escorted aircraft flight path. Length
of the legs is adjusted to ensure the escort passes approximately
one-half mile behind the escorted aircraft. See Figure 7-1.
3. Racetrack Escort Pattern. The escort normally flies 300 to
500 feet above and in a racetrack pattern that progresses
along the flight path of the escorted aircraft. Size of the
pattern flown by the escort may be adjusted to provide maximum
coverage. See Figure 7-2.
4. Formation. If the two aircraft are capable of maintaining the
same speed, the escort may wish to maintain a constant
position relative to the helicopter.
5. Precautions with Helicopters.
a. A minimum vertical separation of at least 200 feet
must be maintained whenever a fixed-wing aircraft passes over
a helicopter. Otherwise the downwash and slipstream
turbulence from the fixed-wing aircraft may cause the
helicopter to lose control.
Figure 7-1. Helicopter Dogleg Escort Pattern
7-6