What action should be taken if a pilot requests to separate from a formation?

When a pilot requests to separate from a formation, the appropriate action is to issue instructions through the lead or directly to the requesting pilot. This ensures that the separation is conducted safely and efficiently, considering the dynamics of the formation flight. By communicating the separation instructions directly or through the formation leader, the pilot can ensure that all aircraft in the formation are aware of the maneuver.

This approach helps maintain situational awareness, as the lead pilot can assist in coordination and manage the formation's integrity during the separation maneuver. It facilitates a clear chain of communication, enabling the requested separation to occur with minimal disruption to ongoing operations.

In this context, informing ATC would typically occur after separation has been initiated to ensure compliance with air traffic control regulations, and it's not necessary to wait for the next communication check, as that could delay important actions. While clarifying the reason for separation may be necessary in some scenarios, it is not an immediate action and does not directly address the pilot's request for separation.