My only input, and possibly not necessarily relevant is that the only pilot I ever met, that I outranked was an Army Lynx pilot. We called each other mate, and enjoyed a few welcome beers after I wangled him an hour, under supervision in the RH seat of Albert. Pilots are pilots, all very capable, and all given status according to how their individual service values them. Hence, the RAF operates on the principle of Air Power, pilots are the dogs goolies, in the navy, the air arm is seen as supportive to operations, likewise the Army. My personal opinion is that anyone who operates a machine over people's heads, with the capability to kill them if he "cocks up" deserves respect, whatever rank he holds.
Smudge
