Miscellaneous
What issue did militaries have with planes
- New, unproven technology
- Couldn't attach guns to planes
What is an Ace
Someone who won an aerial battle
What were planes called
Flying Coffins
How many planes did the Germans have
400
What edge did the Germans have in the beginning
They knew how to shoot without hitting the propeller
From accidents or plane malfunctions
How many planes did the British and French have
French had 156 and the British had 113
What were Zeppelins used for
Observation, bombings, and they were filled with gas
Disadvantages
- Highest mortality rate
- Average pilot lifespan was 3 weeks in 1916
When was the Sopwith Camel invented
1917
What were "Dog Fights"
Close range fight between planes where they try to shoot each other
Advantages
- Better food, pay, uniforms
- Slept in beds
- Access to showers + laundry
Who was Billy Bishop
One of the best "Aces," he won 72 battles
Why didn't the British use parachutes
They feared it would encourage their pilots to abandon mission
What did the lifespan drop to in "Bloody April" 1917
11 days