Final answer:
US Air Force pilot height requirements have been modified to include more people, addressing the exclusion of over 40 percent of American women. The role of women in aviation is exemplified by members of the Women's Army Corps and WASP program during World War II, reflecting a history of capable women pilots.
Step-by-step explanation:
Previously, to become a pilot in the US Air Force, a person needed to meet certain height requirements: no shorter than 5 feet 4 inches and no taller than 6 feet 5 inches. These rules, while intended to ensure that pilots could fit properly into their seats, effectively excluded a significant portion of the population, particularly impacting women, with over 40 percent of American women being disqualified from becoming pilots. In response to this, the height requirements have been modified to allow more people the opportunity to pursue a career as a pilot in the military.
During World War II, the Women's Army Corps (WAC) included college-aged members who not only repaired aircraft but also held pilot's licenses. Women with such qualifications also served as civilian pilots through the Women's Air Force Service Pilots (WASP) program, highlighting women's contributions and abilities in aviation roles traditionally dominated by men.