Bavarian Pilots

Hi,

Here's a good question: What was the total number of Bavarians to qualify as a pilot during WWI (both single and 2-seater)? Is there a source that explains this? I expect far fewer Bavarian pilots then there were Prussian, as there were only ten Bavarian affiliated Jasta units by war's end. I know, they flew with Prussian units until the re-organization, but it still gives a very good indication of their rarity.

regards

[Rick]

An excellent question, and one which should be addressed directly to Dr. Dieter Gröschel, who has GREAT knowledge on the Bavarian air service. R.

[Scotty]

In OTF Volume 15 Number 2 (Which was edited by Dr. Gröschel), there is an article by Dr. Harald Potempa which states that:

"Under the signature "HS2244" the Bavarian War Archive kept a list of Bavarian pilots. It covers the period from the beginning of the war to spring 1918 and includes all persons who flew, irrespective whether they possesed the pilot badge or were just trainees with third examination. There are 3,021 men on this List."

Thank you Rick and Scotty for your inputs. Can anyone point me to a reference that gives a listing of Bavarian recon. and bomber units during the war?

regards

[Rick]

Can anyone point me to a reference that gives a listing of Bavarian recon. and bomber units during the war?

WW,

People ?? Ask Dieter.

Units, Jasta 16,23,32,34,35,76,77,78,79,80, FFA 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9, FA 45,46, FA(A) 287-298, 304, along with 101,102,103, 199, KG 6 (Ks 31-36), BG 8 (Bs 25-27 ), Schusta 22-31, and probably a few more that I have forgotten!!

The best reference is the Harald Potempa book on the Bavarian Air Service, Lang Publishers. Not cheap, around $100.00. If you want more details, just ask!! R.

Hi Rick,

I appreciate the unit listings. You are a constant source of valuable information! That book sounds interesting to me. I will have to search for it.

regards