(3 of 3)
Already new bail-out equipment is being devised on the basis of Smith's experience. A better parachute and helmet are called for, and better restraining mechanism for head, shoulders and limbs.
Smith is now in fairly good shape, considering. He stayed in the hospital six months, with a brief and ill-advised discharge ending in return for an internal operation. He has passed a physical examination that has restored his commercial flying certificate. He is not cleared to fly jets again, but he hopes to. And he hopes to be back at work soon in his old job as test pilot.