Pilot shortages also slow Japanese aircraft development

The same small pool of experienced pilots had to provide operational air-group leaders, instructors and test pilots during the war in China. Test flying required both exceptional flying ability and engineering skill, making suitable personnel particularly scarce. One explanation for slower Japanese aircraft development in the late 1930s and early 1940s is that operational demands drew too heavily on that pool. Giving unsuccessful applicants a second attempt at the same demanding selection threshold improved access without producing enough additional pilots.