We Males

Should mothers fly planes? Yes, they may, says the Civil Aeronautics Authority (all five of whom are fathers). Should expectant mothers do likewise ? Certainly not, says the CAA. This typically masculine decision got very much in the hair of blue-eyed Mrs. Betty Huyler Gillies, Long Island society matron and transport pilot. Last week she sent a message to CAA: lift that ban.

Bearer of the message and representative of the Ninety-Nines, an association of women fliers of which Mrs. Gillies is head, was Private Fliers Association Counsel Hav en B. Page (father of three). Mr. Page brandished five obstetricians' opinions on the flying competence of pregnant women.One physician maintained that women are completely capable during 90% of their pregnancy, successfully drive cars, sail boats, etc. Thin, emaciated women, vowed another expert, would be much better pilots if they were four months pregnant. Said he, it makes them feel better ; the attitude of "we males" is largely superstition.

One reason for the Ninety-Nines' protest : because of the ban against pregnant women flying, many a woman with a private license is unable to fly the 15 hours a year necessary for renewal of her certificate, has to keep starting all over again as a student.

CAA straightway sent for help, got other doctors to testify that an expectant mother is subject to fainting spells, nausea. No law was required to cover that possibility, scoffed a Ninety-Nines doctor. A nau seated woman just would not get in a plane, any more than a nauseated man.

Heads buzzing with these contrary medi cal opinions, the CAA fathers took the delicate question under advisement.

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