> In 1968 Boeing modified the flight control system (stability augmentation system, as I recall) for half the B-52 fleet. Each crew was briefed and given classroom training, but despite the effort, it was still possible to be assigned later to fly an airplane without notice which had the new system installed, and some confusion to be experienced. One of the aircrew reports you quoted echoed, 50 years later, the same complaint.
The fault, in my opinion, lies with the airlines involved and their associated training. Flight positions are coveted, nobody in one wants to rock the boat and adm…