When a real formation encounters turbulence, it actually isn't that big of a deal. Since these guys fly so close together, they tend to go through the rough air as unit with minimal relative movement between the jets.
I agree though, that while we all strive for perfection (and you have to aim pretty darn high and not be satisfied with "almost there"), the fluidity of seeing the pilot at work is what makes it
real in the virtual skies. It would be boring really fast if everyone kept nailing their flying routine every single time...
To quote JFK (as Teej and I've been doing a lot lately):
"We choose to do this and other things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard."
Ells wrote:...it's great news that you guys are up and flying again and I can't wait to see you live.
That's the goal, and we have multiple things in the works. Soon...
We've also started flying real world parameters, actually pulling 4G formation loops at speeds ~450 knots. Not only that, but we're flying with correct fuel loads now too and burning JP8, so the jets get lighter as the show goes on, and you can't rely on burner to save your butt (too often), or you'll go bingo before the demo is over. The next step might be adding some wind and weather. Within reason, you could say we've elevated the realism to match the real guys even more this season.
The good news is, it feels great and I think we'll end up topping our '09 performance. That's the benchmark, and while I know most of you never got a chance to see the second half due to streaming issues - there might be something we can do about that too.
So, to end this side note... We're back and hard at work mastering our flying in FC2 with new params, flight model and exciting results to come! Flying the same way the real guys fly (at the
real speeds) not only raises the difficulty level, but is also very rewarding when you watch the replays.