A 100% loss of first-line combat planes in the first months of fighting is expected by the U. S. Air Corps if ever its new armada flies to war.* Such appalling losses put a premium upon a vast reserve of pilots. Last week the non-military Civil Aeronautics Authority took a long step to increase that reserve: it certified 220 U. S. colleges and universities for participation in its pilot-training program, prepared to name still more to share $5,675,000 voted by Congress for schooling 11,000 new fliers this year.
C. A. A. trainees are all civilians, most are collegians. They will be taught...