I've ran away from plenty of fights. That's the first rule of Air Combat. NEVER ATTACK AN ENEMY WHO HAS THE ADVANTAGE. Whether it's altitude, a better plane, better firepower, a better pilot, or friendly flak to hide under... it really doesn't matter. I would even go as far as to say having your line of egress (retreat) cut off by nme planes uping in the sector behind you, is ample reason to break off from an engagement and bug out. The first rule is always SURVIVAL.
I can only think of one situation that would compel me to stay in a losing battle. If another pilot cleared my six as I was about to be shot down.. I'd be obliged to remain and fight whatever the odds. Until the other pilot has the opportunity to disengage as well.
I must admit I'm more than a bit reluctant myself to clear the six of a friendly pilot in trouble. Too often the pilot you just saved will immediately bug out. Leaving you in the exact same situation you just saved him from. This happened to me dozens of times when I first started flying. It rarely happens anymore.
I would also not expect a formation of bombers to engage enemy planes in order to help a friendly fighter. That's insane. Yes. Bombers are armed (lightly in any one gun position), and highly unmaneuverable. It would be like expecting your sister to jump in and help you in a fist fight. Bombers should always Bug Out.
