In the novel "All Quiet on the Western Front" by Erich Maria Remarque, the term "flying division" refers to a military unit that is involved in aerial warfare, specifically aviation operations during World War I. In the context of the book, it likely refers to a division or unit of pilots and aircraft involved in aerial combat, reconnaissance, and bombing missions.
During World War I, aviation played an increasingly significant role, with the development of aircraft for reconnaissance, air-to-air combat, and aerial bombing. The flying divisions were composed of pilots and ground crew who operated and maintained the aircraft, conducting missions to gather intelligence, engage in dogfights with enemy aircraft, and support ground forces through aerial attacks. The novel may depict the experiences of soldiers who were part of or encountered these flying divisions during the war.