It may have been irrelevant Jackonicko but I think that leading from the front does have it's benefits.
After all he can now talk to pilots on a level.
I would hate to be an Admiral who couldn’t command a ship or a General who couldn't fire the latest weapon etc. How on earth could you look your men in the eye whilst taking a parade?
How much would this solo have cost? How much time has it taken etc? has it put that bigger dent in pilot training?
Is there a hint of jealousy here?