The aircraft's gross and maximum takeoff weights reflected more than fuel, weapons, and three crew members. Flights over the sea required survival gear for ditching as well as a substantial navigation outfit. A lost land-based pilot could follow landmarks or even land in a field, but a naval crew could not rely on those options over open water. Maritime aviation therefore added payload and logistical demands that simple performance comparisons can easily hide.
Notable Point · 27:26-30:05
Over-water operations imposed their own equipment burden
The Blackburn's takeoff weight included survival and navigation equipment that land-based crews could sometimes avoid by following landmarks or landing to ask directions.