By March of which year was it mandatory for Army and Navy aircrew to wear standard back-type parachutes in flight?

The correct answer is significant because it highlights a key development in aviation safety protocols, specifically regarding parachute usage for aircrew members. By March 1924, it became mandatory for Army and Navy aircrew to wear standard back-type parachutes during flight operations. This requirement was a direct response to the need to enhance the safety measures for personnel operating in aircraft, particularly given the rising awareness of the risks associated with aviation at that time.

The establishment of this mandate reflects the evolution of aviation safety standards, prioritizing the effective protection of crew members in cases of emergencies requiring ejections or bailouts. The back-type parachute design was favored for its practicality and effectiveness, allowing aircrew members to exit aircraft in distress situations more safely.

Understanding the historical context of this regulation provides insight into how early aviation personnel began to prioritize safety practices, paving the way for the advanced safety measures that are now standard in modern aviation.