Why is it always the same?
Mostly laziness.
Who are the two pilots, do they change?
Yes, the two pilots can be anyone in the squadron really, without regard to rank or gender. Though typically the front cockpit is for the student pilots. I’ll try to clue you in with the dialogue the best I can.
Is it really that hard to draw real characters?
Not really, but it takes a lot more time and effort than you would think. However, experience in comic-making has taught me that although comics allow for a small degree of physical comedy, 90% of the time the characters were just talking heads, looking at each other with their mouths slightly agape. What really matters is the timing and the punchline.
I borrowed the idea of the repetitive image from some comics I like, and I think it’ll be a fun challenge to keep it interesting. The original artwork took maybe a day, and now I’m able to post a new comic between briefings or whenever the inspiration strikes. I think it’ll work out for everyone.