In the counterfactual, an Admiral-class carrier has enough aircraft capacity to rescue RAF aircraft from Norway while retaining a useful naval air group. Its greater size also makes substantial flag staff facilities and an admiral aboard more likely. A senior commander would have fewer grounds to accept sailing without an aerial patrol when enough aircraft were available. An early sighting of the German battlecruisers could allow the carrier to turn away before contact. It might also launch torpedo aircraft and report the German ships to Warspite or Renown, making reconnaissance a major change alongside additional protection.
Notable Point · 47:57-49:31
How a larger carrier could change the Glorious encounter
A larger replacement for Glorious could rescue RAF aircraft while maintaining reconnaissance, giving it time to avoid or attack the German battlecruisers.