The ensuing radio transmissions went somewhat as follows: "There's a snake in my glider! what should I do? " He was advised to: (1) fly higher so it gets cold and goes back to sleep or passes out from lack of oxygen;
(2) look in its eyes to see if the pupils are round or eliptical, if round, it is not a poisonous snake, so no worries, you can finish the task (3) land as soon as possible! He chose option 3.
according to Riki-Tikki-Tavi if you look into a snakes eyes you're a goner anyway..
I've tried this at the zoo but the snakes always avert their gaze.