I have a question for someone.
How were pilots and co-pilots chosen for B-17 and B-24's.
I've notice that some co-pilots flew CP on one aircraft the entire 35 or more missions and never made the left seat so time and experience wasn't the only factor.
Anyone know? It's a question that has been bugging me for years.
Thanks.
Back in the late 50's I was a jet engine mechanic in the National guard. Some inspections required we use a red penetrating dye with a white chalky follow up to test for hidden cracks in turbine blades on our F-86D's. Wonder if it was the same stuff. Sure looks like it.
Talk about a runway not being long enough! In the late '60's I boarded an Air Mexicana flight from Mexico City. The aircraft was a British made Comet, the one with 4 burning in the wing roots. I swear we hit the rumble strip at the end of the runway before lift off.
