Cockpits: Getting into the Sopwith cockpit was probably easier for young pilots in World War One. You have to contort under bracing wires and balance on a small hard point on the wing. Once in the cockpit you disappear, with only your head protruding and your legs almost straight ahead of you on the rudder pedals. It is cosy, with a lot more protection from the elements than the Dr.I. Instrumentation in both is eccentric, and almost an afterthought in the Dr.l where they seem to be deliberately placed so you can't see them. GETTING UNDER WAY: Taxiing needs care due to the lack of any vision, particularly in the Sopwith. There is little forward visibility, even with scallops in the mid-wing, and a mental picture of your taxi route is essential as well as energetic weaving. The Fokker is more spacious and the seating position leaves the shoulders and head much more exposed, giving less protection but more visibility. Some Fokker pilots even slip off the shoulder harness and look over the nose to chart the path to the take-off point. Fine, as long as you remember to do the harness up again!
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