It's not as simple as "low numbers" Spot 4; it works on "seniority", which is defined as the aggregate number of years in front-line service.
So there's a big gap between those squadrons who disbanded between WW1 and WW2 and those who didn't; very much Premier League vs Vauxhall Conference. Don't know where 74 stands in this.
But it explains why some flying boat squadron with a beer label for a badge ousted 72 from NI after a mere 33 years ......
[stands well back waiting for enraged pussycat flak!!
]