THE PHYSIOLOGICAL ASPECTS 



OF FLYING 1 



Owing to the exigencies of modern warfare, a youth 

 about eighteen years of age may be called upon in 

 the course of a comparatively short time to acquire a 

 mechanical knowledge of an aeroplane and how to 

 handle it; and then, in yet a few weeks more, may 

 be flying at a height of 3^ to 4 miles on photographic 

 reconnaissance over hostile territory, or engaged in 

 aerial combat over the enemy's lines. 



It is hardly an exaggeration to say that such a lad 

 is probably subjected in that short period of time to 

 a greater strain than were his forbears over the many 

 thousands of years of evolution. 



As a result of war conditions, there has been a sub- 

 stantial increase in the speed of aeroplanes and the 

 heights to which they can attain. Despite improve- 

 ments in aeroplane construction, and the increased 

 reliability of engines, the nervous excitement and 

 strain brought about by war flying have become 

 greater. It is now necessary, not only to fly a 

 machine, but in many cases to be able to " stunt' 

 it in a most extraordinary and nerve-trying manner. 

 Aerial combats have increased, the aim of anti-aircraft 

 guns has improved, and new tactics, such as "ground 

 strafing ", have been introduced. 



1 Owing to the requirements of the censor, certain facts and figures given in 

 this lecture have been omitted ; other passages have been amplified, and addi- 

 tional information inserted. 



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