The Nervous Flyer: Nerves, Flying and the First World War

Area of Science:

• Military Medicine
• Aviation Psychology
• History of Medicine

Background:

• World War I revealed significant nervous and psychological challenges faced by pilots in aerial warfare.
• The experiences of flying personnel with nervous disorders have been historically overlooked compared to infantry trauma.
• Existing military medical historiography has treated flying personnel separately from 'shell-shocked' soldiers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the military medical response to nervous disorders within the Royal Flying Corps.
• To address the historiographical gap concerning the unique psychological rigors experienced by pilots.
• To present the medical perspective on the nervous disorders of flying personnel.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of the military medical response to nervous disorders in the Royal Flying Corps.
• Examination of the research conducted by air-minded medical officers during WWI.
• Review of historical medical records and conclusions regarding flying personnel's psychological health.

Main Results:

• Flying personnel were medically distinguished from infantry due to their unique employment.
• Medical officers identified that flying significantly impacted not only bodily functions but also the nervous system regulating psychological responses.
• The study highlights the specific nervous strains and psychological wear experienced by pilots.

Conclusions:

• The unique nature of aerial warfare necessitated and facilitated the study of flying-related medical problems, including nervous disorders.
• Medical officers concluded that flying had a distinct impact on the psychological well-being of pilots.
• This research fills a critical gap in understanding the medical history of military aviation and its psychological toll.