I just realised how screwed I was a few years ago as a newb flying a B17 around 6k.
On my return trip ( or maybe en route to then run? I can't recall too well) I had a total of two encounters with enemy aircraft. All I remember about that is that the fighter didn't kill ALL of my planes (it might have been back before drones, again I'm not sure) but one of my engines on the right side was on fire. I was like, "Meh." I saw a friendly fighter flying a ways over me and over the VOX I hear "Macer, you're on fire."
"Yeah, I know."
"Alright."
I'm not even sure if I exploded during that flight. Does shutting off a flaming engine save you from exploding? I'm pretty sure it was the engine on fire and not a tank...