cobra: play the BWO demo. you will notice that, even if your wingmen die, they come back in the next mission.
except, in the last mission, Jack (alpha 4) dies, but they do make it a big deal and its all scripted and all.
its not a HUGE spoiler, but still a surprise. read at yer own risk. :p
its implied because: think about how many pilots the GTVA goes through >.< :p a LOT.
also, having these 'life pods' would explain why theres no 'life support' system on fighters, and why pilots dont get physical injuries ;) its super sheilded!