Originally Posted by
ThreeThreeMike
I suspect an overwhelming majority of the 400 hour pilots that flew the B-17 in combat didn't have an issue with the cockpit layout, considering it was the only four engine aircraft they had ever flown.
The throttles were designed that way to provide simultaneous control of one side or of all four engines in one movement. Adjustments had to be made often to keep the aircraft in the tight combat box formation.
Make no mistake TTM, those pilots had throuble with the cockpit layout and controls. Raising the gear instead of the flaps upon landing is a biggie.
The good thing is that it raised investigation and evolution.
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QUOTE control of one side
Guess you meant outbord or inboards.
Donīt recall having any problem flying formation with the DC-6 using its ergonomic throttle levers setup