The inception of the airplane was not a fleeting occurrence but a gradual evolution spanning centuries. The lofty dreams of flight, a concept that had tantalized the imaginations of humanity since the era of ancient Greeks, did not materialize into reality until the late eighteenth century. The pivotal turning point arrived with the advent of hot-air balloons and gliders, marking the nascent stages of making human flight a tangible prospect.
Dreams of Flight Through the Ages
The longing for flight can be traced back through the annals of human history, echoing in the minds of visionaries and dreamers across different epochs. From the musings of ancient Greeks who wistfully contemplated the skies to the Renaissance polymaths sketching fantastical flying machines, the concept of soaring through the air was a persistent and tantalizing aspiration that refused to be confined to the realm of mere fantasy.
Hot-Air Balloons and Gliders: Pioneers of Human Flight
In the late eighteenth century, the wheels of progress began to turn decisively towards the realization of human flight. Hot-air balloons, buoyed by the principles of thermodynamics, ascended into the skies, defying gravity and embodying the audacious dreams of centuries past. These early airborne vessels, though lacking the sophistication of modern aircraft, were the vanguards of a new era, providing a tangible glimpse into the potential of controlled aerial exploration.
The Crucial Shift: From Imagination to Feasibility
As the eighteenth century unfolded, the evolution of human flight underwent a transformative shift from fanciful imagination to tangible feasibility. Gliders, engineered to harness the forces of wind and air, played a pivotal role in this paradigm shift. These rudimentary flying machines, though inherently limited in their capabilities, served as experimental platforms that paved the way for the engineering marvels yet to come, illustrating that the dream of human flight was no longer a whimsical notion but an attainable reality inching closer to fruition.
The Dawn of a New Era
The late eighteenth century stands as the dawn of a new era, where the collective dreams of generations began to materialize. The skies, once an unattainable frontier, were now within reach, thanks to the ingenuity and perseverance of those who dared to challenge the forces of gravity. The journey from ancient dreams to the realization of flight was an arduous yet remarkable odyssey, laying the foundation for the technological leaps that would define the future of aviation.
Pioneering Experiments and the Wright Brothers
In the twilight of the nineteenth century, the realm of powered, heavier-than-air flight lay dormant, awaiting the transformative touch of experimentation. It was only during this period that individuals began to delve earnestly into the possibilities of flight, spurred by an array of experiments involving kites and gliders. A noteworthy duo in this quest for the skies emerged in the form of Wilbur and Orville Wright. These visionary minds, through a series of groundbreaking experiments, set the stage for the aviation revolution that would unfold in the coming decades.
The Unfolding Tapestry of Twentieth-Century Aviation
The evolution of the airplane unfurled as a captivating tapestry in the twentieth century, weaving through the fabric of time from the first powered flight to the advent of supersonic transport. The pace of innovation in aviation was nothing short of remarkable, catalyzed by the crucible of World War I and World War II. In the crucible of conflict, advancements in aircraft technology surged forward, propelling humanity into an era where the skies were no longer a distant frontier but a realm of endless possibilities.
Rise of an Industry: Air Travel’s Ripple Effect
The burgeoning demand for air travel cast a ripple effect that reverberated through various sectors, giving rise to a burgeoning industry. This industry was a confluence of entities, including plane development corporations, engine and equipment manufacturers, and the architects behind the construction and operation of airports. The symbiotic relationship between technological innovation and consumer demand transformed air travel from a novelty to an integral component of the modern human experience.
The Military Embrace: Airplanes in Defense Strategy
A pivotal moment in the narrative of aviation unfolded when military leaders recognized the intrinsic value of airplanes. The aircraft swiftly assumed a central role not only in defense but also in the strategic and tactical frameworks of warfare. As wars evolved, so did the role of airplanes, shaping the trajectory of conflicts and redefining the very nature of battle. This shift marked a paradigmatic moment, elevating the airplane from a mere invention to an indispensable asset in the theater of war.
Sir George Cayley’s Vision: Birth of the Airplane Concept
In the dim expanse of Yorkshire’s gloomy moors, at the turn of the nineteenth century, Sir George Cayley, an English baronet, conceived a visionary idea — a flying machine with fixed wings, a propulsion system, and movable control surfaces. This conceptualization laid the foundation for the airplane. Sir George Cayley went beyond mere theory; he constructed the first true airplane—a crude assembly of a kite affixed to a stick with a movable tail. Despite its simplicity, this humble glider validated Cayley’s concept, setting in motion the evolution of these extraordinary machines that would propel humanity to the very edge of space, achieving speeds surpassing the barrier of sound.
Pioneering Dreams of Flight
Since time immemorial, the human spirit has been captivated by the idea of soaring through the skies. This fascination with flight can be traced back centuries, finding expression in the musings of polymaths like Leonardo da Vinci (1452-1519). Da Vinci’s visionary sketches depicted intricate machines designed to defy gravity, providing a glimpse into the relentless yearning to conquer the skies. However, it wasn’t until the year 1782 that the Montgolfier brothers ignited the first spark of airborne achievement with their scorching hot air balloon, gracefully gliding over the majestic city of Paris for a mesmerizing 25 minutes.
The Evolving Quest for Powered Flight
The advent of powered balloons, though revolutionary, did not immediately usher in the era of practical airplanes. The 19th century witnessed valiant attempts at manned flight through gliders and experimental engines, fueled by a potent mix of ambition and ingenuity. As steam and various engines were pressed into service, the sky remained an elusive frontier. Despite setbacks and unsuccessful experiments, the dream of achieving sustained, controlled flight hung tantalizingly close.
The Pivotal Moment: Birth of Powered Flight
In the annals of aeronautical history, 1896 stands as a pivotal year when the dream of powered flight took a giant leap forward. A powered model airplane defied gravity, demonstrating that the confluence of wings and propellants could indeed propel humanity into the skies. Although earlier attempts had met with limited success, this marked the threshold of a new era, with the airplane poised to emerge from the cocoon of experimentation and theory.
The Wright Brothers: Architects of the Skies
The Wright brothers, Wilbur and Orville, were not mere accidental pioneers but meticulous architects of aviation. In 1899, Wilbur reached out to the Smithsonian Institution, seeking guidance on the intricacies of flight. Drawing inspiration from the works of visionaries such as George Cayley, Octave Chanute, Samuel Langley, and Otto Lilienthal, the Wright brothers embarked on a journey of relentless exploration. Their arsenal included experiments with birds, kites, and gliders, with a bespoke wind tunnel constructed to refine their understanding of aerodynamics.
A Tradition of Excellence: From Research to Innovation
In their pursuit of flight, the Wright brothers embraced a tradition of engineering excellence. Rather than relying solely on the research of others, they meticulously duplicated experiments and drew their conclusions. This dedication to understanding the intricacies of flight not only set them apart but also cemented their legacy. The invaluable insights gleaned from their experiments were generously shared with Octave Chanute, establishing a collaborative spirit that transcended individual achievement. Their commitment to avoiding reckless trial and error underscored the significance of methodical research in the pursuit of aeronautical mastery. Thus, the Wright brothers ushered in an era where the skies were navigated not by chance but by the deliberate and informed decisions of visionary aviators.
The Prelude of Innovation: Bicycle Crafting and Analysis
Before venturing into the realm of aviation, the Wright brothers were engrossed in the meticulous craft of constructing and repairing bicycles. This seemingly unrelated endeavor turned out to be a pivotal foundation for their future aeronautical pursuits. Their expertise in handling materials like wood and metal, acquired during their bicycle endeavors, played a crucial role in constructing a flying machine that was not only lightweight but also possessed the necessary robustness. The brothers, unknowingly, were laying the groundwork for their aviation odyssey through the practical skills honed in the bicycle workshop.
Insights from Pedals to Propellers: The Crossroads of Ideas
The transition from bicycles to airplanes bestowed upon the Wright brothers a unique perspective. Their intimate knowledge of bicycles provided them with invaluable insights into the fundamental principles that an aircraft needed to embody. The concept of speed and lightness, gleaned from the world of bicycles, became an intrinsic part of their understanding of aviation. Drawing parallels, they realized that like bicycles, airplanes demanded constant control for maintaining balance and stability, an insight that was to guide their groundbreaking innovations in the realm of flight.
Shaping the Unconventional: The Birth of a Flexible Aircraft
In a departure from conventional wisdom, the Wright brothers chose an unconventional path in aircraft design. Instead of opting for a stable structure manipulated by levers and wheels akin to a car, they envisioned a flexible airplane. This unique vision culminated in the 1903 Wright Flyer, a pioneering aircraft that relied partly on the pilot’s movements for control, reminiscent of the dynamics seen in riding a bicycle. This departure from the norm was a testament to their ingenuity, reshaping the very essence of how an aircraft could be controlled and operated.
The 1903 Wright Flyer: A Marvel of Ingenuity
The tangible outcome of the Wright brothers’ inventive journey materialized in the form of the 1903 Wright Flyer. This remarkable aircraft featured two sets of wings, positioned one above the other, spanning an impressive 12 meters from tip to tip. A bespoke 12-horsepower engine, meticulously crafted by the brothers, powered the aircraft. The engine, in turn, spun two propellers, an innovation that marked another milestone in aviation history. Eschewing conventional landing gear, the Flyer was equipped with skids, a testament to the brothers’ unconventional approach to flight.
Kitty Hawk Sojourn: The Inaugural Flight Attempt
On the historic date of December 14, 1903, the Wright brothers transported the Wright Flyer to the sandy shores of Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. It was at this picturesque location that Wilbur Wright, with a blend of anticipation and audacity, made the first attempt to unleash the aircraft’s potential. The windswept dunes of Kitty Hawk bore witness to the nascent stages of powered flight, as the Wright brothers embarked on a journey that would forever alter the course of human transportation and exploration.
Stages of Airplane invention
The Pioneering Brothers: Orville and Wilbur Wright
In the late 19th century, two bicycle manufacturers from Dayton, Ohio, emerged as trailblazers in the realm of aviation — the Wright brothers, Orville and Wilbur. Born in 1871 and 1867, respectively, the duo delved into the intricate challenges of conquering the skies. They discerned that navigating an aircraft was far from the simplicity of riding a bicycle, paving the way for their groundbreaking endeavors.
The Conception of Controlled Flight
Determined to unravel the mysteries of aerial control, Orville and Wilbur Wright meticulously designed a biplane equipped with a 12-horsepower gasoline engine. Their pursuit of flight mastery led them to the serene expanses of North Carolina. It was on December 17, 1903, that Orville took the helm, orchestrating a momentous flight that lasted a mere 12 seconds but spanned an impressive 120 feet (36.5 m). This historic achievement, witnessed by a select few, marked the inception of human-controlled flight.
The Initial Reception and Dormant Years
Despite the significance of their accomplishment, the Wright brothers’ feat garnered modest attention. Four men and a boy were present as witnesses, capturing the moment through the lens of a camera. Although a handful of newspapers reported the event, the broader public remained largely indifferent for five years. The nascent field of aviation struggled to shed its impractical image during this dormant period.
Aviation Takes Flight Amidst World War I
The outbreak of World War I in 1914 acted as a catalyst for the evolution of aviation. The need for improved aircraft design, functionality, and production capabilities became paramount. Across England, France, and Germany, manufacturers undertook the mass production of airplanes. However, as the United States entered the war in 1917, it possessed a mere 110 airplanes. A collaborative effort between airplane and automobile manufacturers ensued, resulting in the production of an additional 15,000 planes by the war’s conclusion in 1918.
Post-War Renaissance and Industry Giants
The aftermath of World War I ushered in a period of accelerated progress in aviation. Boeing, headquartered in Seattle, Washington, and Lockheed, based in Santa Barbara, California, emerged as titans in the industry. These companies, initially established to meet wartime demands, successfully transitioned into major players in the post-war aviation landscape. Notably, both Boeing and Lockheed continue to thrive as industry leaders to this day.
The Roaring Twenties: Commercial Aviation Takes Flight
The 1920s witnessed a rapid expansion of commercial aviation. Airlines began ferrying passengers across the United States and Europe, transforming air travel from a novelty to a practical means of transportation. Concurrently, the U.S. government harnessed the speed of airplanes to expedite mail delivery, showcasing the versatile applications of aviation beyond the realm of warfare. The roaring twenties marked a defining era for aviation, where the sky ceased to be a limit, but rather, a realm of endless possibilities.
Aviation Development in the 1920s and 1930s
In 1924, a transformative moment in aviation history occurred with the establishment of beacons at airports, enabling the possibility of night flying. Simultaneously, passenger airways had already taken root in South America, Africa, and Australia. Noteworthy pioneers such as KLM, Lufthansa, and Qantas, which emerged during this era, remarkably continue their operations even in the present day.
European Leadership in Aircraft Construction and Operation
Europeans played a pivotal role in both constructing airplanes and operating airways during the early 20th century. In England, DeHaviland and Vickers spearheaded aircraft construction in the 1920s, while France witnessed the emergence of several aviation companies in the 1930s, contributing significantly to the evolution of the aviation industry.
Germany’s Post-World War I Aviation Industry
Germany faced restrictions on manufacturing military planes due to the peace treaty at the end of World War I. Undeterred, companies such as Messerschmitt, Heinkel, Fokker, and Junkers established a burgeoning aviation industry. Intriguingly, they clandestinely developed military aircraft after Adolf Hitler ascended to power in 1933, marking a fascinating chapter in aviation history.
Japan’s Aviation Endeavors in the 1930s
Japan, too, delved into aviation advancements during the 1930s, with Mitsubishi emerging as a prominent player. Notably, Mitsubishi produced the Zero, a renowned fighter aircraft that left an indelible mark on World War II history.
Diversification of American Aircraft Companies
In the United States, the aviation landscape witnessed the establishment of several prominent aircraft companies. Donald Douglas set up a company in Santa Monica, California, while Consolidated Aircraft in Rhode Island took over the designs initiated by the Wright brothers in 1909. This period marked a significant diversification in the American aviation industry.
Evolution of Air Transportation Safety
As air transportation progressed, safety became a paramount concern. By 1935, four major U.S. airlines – American, Eastern, United, and TWA – were operating, signifying a notable increase in air travel safety. Concurrently, regional and limited schedules were introduced by other airlines like Northwest, Delta, and Braniff. Pan American Airlines stood out as the sole American international airline, connecting continents such as Latin America, Asia, and the Pacific.
Advancements in Aircraft Design for Increased Efficiency
The need for larger planes capable of accommodating more passengers and undertaking longer journeys without refueling prompted significant advancements in aircraft design. Boeing introduced the two-engine Boeing 247, Lockheed crafted the single-engine Vega, and Ford Motor Company developed the Trimotor – all achieving remarkable success. Douglas Aircraft’s contribution to this era was the Douglas DC-3, a twin-engine transport aircraft that not only became immensely successful but also holds the distinction of being one of the most widely used planes globally, with some still gracing the skies today.
The Rise of Flying Boats and Seaplanes in the 1930s
In the mid-1930s, a captivating era in aviation history unfolded as several corporations delved into the production of flying boats and seaplanes. These marvels of engineering, equipped with four engines, were meticulously designed to conquer the challenges of landing and taking off from water surfaces. Their purpose extended beyond mere continental boundaries; these amphibious aircraft could traverse oceans and endure prolonged flights, ushering in a new era of global connectivity.
Engine manufacturers, attuned to this rapid aviation evolution, played a pivotal role in propelling these seafaring behemoths. The Pratt and Whitney engine, crafted by multiple corporations, emerged as a stalwart in the fleet of powerhouses. Simultaneously, Allison etched its mark by creating a popular airplane engine. By 1938, the skies were teeming with over three and a half million passengers circumnavigating the globe, with a substantial fifty percent of them choosing U.S. airlines for their journeys.
The Impact of World War II on Aviation
The onset of World War II in 1939 cast a shadow on the burgeoning era of air travel, leading to severe restrictions on aviation activities. However, the paradigm shifted dramatically after December 7, 1941, when the United States officially entered the war. In response to the exigencies of the conflict, a formidable force of 40 corporations mobilized to produce planes for the United States and its allies.
The industrial machinery roared to life, churning out American bombers, transports, and fighters at an astonishing rate, reaching a staggering 100,000 aircraft per year by 1944. The airplane, once a symbol of leisurely travel, became a linchpin for all parties involved in the tumultuous events of World War II. Its strategic importance underscored its transformation from a mode of transport to a weapon of unparalleled significance.
The Advent of Jet Propulsion and the Evolution of Aircraft
As World War II progressed, a revolutionary propulsion system loomed on the horizon, threatening to render the existing fleet of planes obsolete. While the concept of jet propulsion had lingered in the annals of scientific understanding for centuries, it was the Germans who catapulted it into practical application, embedding it in an airplane in 1939.
This watershed moment marked the inception of jet engines as the propulsion system of choice, dominating the latter half of the 20th century. These powerful engines not only reshaped the dynamics of air travel but also propelled airplanes to break the sound barrier, achieving supersonic speeds. The advent of jet propulsion thus became the catalyst that propelled the aviation industry into the uncharted realms of the twenty-first century, marking a monumental leap in the evolution of flight technology.
Impact of Airplane Invention
The Global Impact of Airplanes: Bridging Distances and Speeding Through Time
The influence of airplanes and the airline industry on the global populace has been nothing short of profound, evolving rapidly from their inaugural successful flight to the capability of achieving supersonic speeds. This marvel of engineering has effectively shrunk the world, making it easily accessible to people from all walks of life.
The Unifying Role of Airplanes in the United States
In the context of the United States, the airplane swiftly transformed from a novel invention to a unifying force that brought together the vast expanse of this nation. By the mid-century mark, it had transcended its initial status and become the preferred and affordable mode of travel for ordinary citizens. The availability of skilled pilots, honed during wartime, played a crucial role in the expansion of airline operations post-war, fostering the mass production of airplanes.
Evolution of Airports and Support Services: Easing Travel for All
The aftermath of the war saw a flourishing ecosystem around air travel. Airports proliferated, and support services blossomed, collectively contributing to making travel easier, safer, and more accessible. The concerted efforts of the aviation community, coupled with government support, transformed air travel from a luxury into a commonplace reality for people worldwide.
The Swift Pace of Mail Delivery and the Role of Communication
A notable contribution of airplanes to modern life lies in the expeditious delivery of mail. Furthermore, as communication technology advanced, radios found their place in airplanes, enhancing safety and convenience for both airlines and airports. This integration of technology reflected a commitment to keeping pace with the rapidly evolving demands of the aviation landscape.
Government Involvement: Regulation and Safety Oversight
From its inception, air travel garnered the attention and concern of governments. Stringent regulations, encompassing routes, airports, and airspace over cities, were swiftly established. Agencies were formed to oversee aircraft safety and pilot licenses. In the United States, the Civil Aeronautics Board, instituted in 1938, assumed responsibility for regulating airline fees and routes, exemplifying a concerted effort to ensure order and safety in the rapidly expanding aviation industry.
State Oversight and Safety Concerns: A Symbiotic Relationship
At the state level, individual agencies were established to regulate airports. However, safety concerns loomed large even in the earliest days of intercity flights in the United States. The installation of control towers at every airport underscored a proactive approach to overseeing the takeoff and landing of airplanes, reflecting an unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and efficiency of air travel.
The Transformative Impact of Air Travel on Global Accessibility
The airplane, from its inaugural successful flight to its astonishing capability to breach the sound barrier, has swiftly and profoundly influenced the global populace. It has become a symbol of accessibility, bridging vast distances and rendering the world within reach for individuals from all walks of life. The evolution of aviation has been marked by not only increased speed but also continuous improvements, incorporating technologies to enhance landings during adverse weather conditions and deploying radio beacons for precise navigation into airports. How AI, ChatGPT maximizes earnings of many people in minutes
The Evolution of Air Regulations and the Birth of the FAA
In 1958, a monumental step was taken to streamline and regulate the burgeoning airline industry with the establishment of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This entity amalgamated the regulatory responsibilities previously held by the Civil Aeronautics Administration (CAA) and various local agencies. This organizational shift underscored the growing need for a centralized authority to oversee and ensure the safety and efficiency of air travel.
Airplanes as Strategic Tools in World War II
World War II witnessed airplanes emerging as indispensable tools, playing pivotal roles for all involved parties. Beyond their ability to swiftly transport personnel and materials to the front lines, they served as carriers of devastating bombs, altering the course of the war. The infamous aerial bombing of Pearl Harbor not only brought the United States into conflict with Japan but also propelled advancements in aircraft carriers, which became the primary naval weapon in the Pacific theater. Motivation – Mind – Success – Thinking – Productivity – Happiness
Aerial Warfare and Strategic Advantages
The strategic importance of aerial warfare in World War II cannot be overstated. The ability to conduct large-scale aerial bombings on enemy cities became a decisive tactic. Nations that could muster substantial numbers of bomber and fighter planes gained a crucial advantage. The United States, with its unparalleled industrial might, outmatched Germany and Japan, ensuring victory. The prowess to deliver men and materials without facing significant threats from the air further solidified its strategic dominance.
The Berlin Airlift: A Triumph in Cold War Maneuvers
In a pivotal episode of the early Cold War period, the Soviet Union sought to isolate Berlin in 1948 and 1949, then situated in the heart of occupied Germany. The United States responded with a remarkable display of air power, orchestrating the Berlin airlift. Continuous streams of food and supplies were sent by American airplanes, thwarting the Soviet attempt and preserving Berlin as a Western enclave in East Germany. This successful operation not only symbolized the resilience of air travel but also underscored its instrumental role in geopolitical conflicts during the Cold War. Business – Money Making – Marketing – Ecommerce
The Evolution of U.S. Military Aviation in the 1950s
In a pivotal move during the 1950s, the United States undertook a sweeping reorganization of its military assets, consolidating the aerial components of all military services, except the Navy, into a formidable new entity known as the Air Force. This transformation underscored the escalating importance of air operations, emphasizing the pivotal role played by aviation in shaping the nation’s defense strategies.
Aerial Warfare and the Cold War Dynamics
The ensuing four decades of the Cold War between the United States and Russia witnessed the profound impact of air operations on geopolitical tensions. The airplane emerged as a linchpin in the strategic calculus of both superpowers, shaping the contours of military posturing, reconnaissance, and the delicate balance of power in an era dominated by ideological rivalries. Health books, guides, exercises, habits, Diets, and more
Airplanes as Instruments of Political Terrorism
However, the latter half of the twentieth century also witnessed a dark underbelly of aviation’s influence. The tactic of terrorist hijacking of airplanes emerged as a disturbing trend, with small groups employing this method to leverage political statements, often holding passengers hostage for ransom or political demands. This not only necessitated a reevaluation of global aviation security but also triggered a wave of heightened vigilance and tightened measures at airports worldwide.
Humanitarian Role of Aircraft in the Face of Natural Disasters
Simultaneously, airplanes assumed a pivotal role in humanitarian efforts during the latter part of the 20th century. They became the primary means to reach and aid individuals affected by natural calamities such as earthquakes, fires, hurricanes, typhoons, and floods. The airplane’s ability to swiftly transport aid and rescue teams to disaster-stricken areas underscored its versatility and importance in responding to crises on a global scale. Fitness – Meditation – Diet – Weight Loss – Healthy Living – Yoga
The Complex Legacy of Aviation on Modern Life
While the airplane has undeniably been a force for good, facilitating rapid response to emergencies and connecting the world in unprecedented ways, its multifaceted impact cannot be ignored. From shaping military strategies to confronting the menace of terrorism and serving as a lifeline during natural disasters, the airplane has left an indelible mark on the tapestry of modern life—its influence is both uplifting and, at times, fraught with challenges.
Airplane invention timeline
Let’s find below the timeline of Airplane invention:
| Period | Event | Description |
| 1000 BCE | First kites | Kites are invented in China. |
| 852 BCE | A king tries to fly | The English King Bladud is killed attempting to fly. |
| 1485–1500 | Leonardo da Vinci designs flying machines | Leonardo da Vinci made many drawings of wings and flying machines in the late 1400s. He kept them hidden, and they weren’t discovered until 400 years after his death. |
| 1709 | Model glider design | Bartolomeu Laurenço de Gusmao designs a model glider. |
| 1783 | Hot air balloon flight | The first untethered manned hot air balloon flight was on 21 November 1783 in Paris, France in a balloon created by the Montgolfier brothers. |
| 1895 | Biplane gliders | Otto Lilienthal flies biplane gliders. |
| 1903 | First powered flight | Orville and Wilbur Wright made the first recorded powered, sustained, and controlled flight in a heavier-than-air flying machine. |
| 1904 | First powered flight in New Zealand |
Richard Pearse from New Zealand makes his first recorded powered flight of more than a few seconds, though witnesses contend his first flight may have been just before the Wright brothers. Richard Pearse’s monoplane resembled a modern-day microlight. Witness accounts suggest he flew it before the Wright brothers flew theirs. This monoplane is a replica of the South Canterbury Museum in Timaru. There is evidence that Richard Pearse did not achieve controlled flight before the Wright brothers in 1903. See a report from the Timaru Post dated 17 November 1909. |
| 1906 | First powered flight in Europe | Alberto Santos-Dumont makes the first successful powered flight in Europe. |
| 1911 | New Zealander launches glider | Kiwi aviator George Bolt’s flying career began on the South Island in 1911. Aged just 18, he launched a glider that he had designed and built himself from the Cashmere Hills above Christchurch. In 1911 Bolt took New Zealand’s first aerial photographs. In 1916 he began work as an apprentice mechanic at the Walsh brothers’ New Zealand Flying School in Auckland. |
| 1919 | Cross the Atlantic | the NC4 is the first plane to cross the Atlantic Ocean. |
| 1921 | A pilot license first | Bessie Coleman became the first African-American to gain a pilot’s license. |
| 1927 | First trans-Atlantic flight | Charles Lindbergh completes the first solo non-stop trans-Atlantic flight. |
| 1930 | Jet engine invented | British inventor Frank Whittle invents the jet engine. |
| 1930s | First Transatlantic Proving flights | The first Transatlantic Proving flights take place, with PanAm and BOAC traveling from Newfoundland to Foynes and vice versa. |
| 1932 | The first woman flies across the Atlantic | Amelia Earhart is the first woman to fly a solo non-stop trans-Atlantic flight. |
| 1932–1937 | Record-breaking flights |
New Zealander Jean Batten makes record-breaking flights around the world. Jean Batten was a New Zealand aviatrix. During the 1930s, she was well known for taking several record-breaking solo flights across the world. |
| 1939 | First jet-propelled aircraft | Germany’s Heinkel 178 is the first fully jet-propelled aircraft to fly. |
| 1940s | Aerial agriculture developed in NZ |
Seed2 sowing, top dressing, and crop dusting are developed in New Zealand with ex-WW2 pilots and planes. Ossie James, in particular, is noted for his role in this. World War II Tiger Moths were among the first aircraft used for topdressing in New Zealand. Here, in 1953, a loader bucket releases fertilizer into the aircraft hopper. |
| 1947 | Aircraft exceeds the speed of sound | Charles Yeager pilots the first aircraft to exceed the speed of sound in level flight. |
| 1960s | Journey to the Moon | Man lands on the moon and Boeing release the 747. |
| 1969 | First supersonic transport flight | First flights of supersonic3 transport – Soviet TU-144 and Anglo-French Concorde. |
| 1970 | First Boeing 747 commercial flight | Boeing 747 makes the first commercial flight. |
| 1976 | Concorde passengers | Concorde begins its first passenger-carrying service. |
| 1979 | Longest human-powered flight | Bryan Allen pedals the Gossamer Albatross across the English Channel, breaking the distance record for human-powered flight. |
| 1970s | the first and only supersonic civilian aircraft | Aérospatiale and the British Aircraft Corporation unite to develop the Concorde, the first and only supersonic civilian aircraft. |
| 1986 | First non-stop flight around the world | Dick Rutan and Jeana Yeager fly the US ultralight Voyager around the world in a 9-day non-stop flight from California to California. |
| 1980s | The first reusable spacecraft | The first reusable spacecraft, the Space Shuttle, is launched. |
| 1990s | to the Mars | NASA sends the Mars Pathfinder to Mars to commence the first exploration on the surface of another planet. |
| 2000s | Flight by solar and battery-powered airplane | The first nonstop, round-the-world flight by solar and battery-powered airplane is completed. Airbus release the A380 double-decker civilian passenger jet. |
| 2005–2006 | First non-stop world solo flights | Steve Fossett made the first non-stop solo flight around the world (2005) and in 2006 landed in England after flying around the world once and crossing the Atlantic twice – a distance of 26,389.3 miles (42,469.46 kilometers). |
| 2009 | New glider record | New Zealand pilot Terry Delore breaks the world gliding record by 100 kilometers, traveling a total of 2,400 kilometers within New Zealand. |
| 2011 | Martin jetpack | In an unmanned test, the Martin jetpack reaches an altitude of 5,000 feet (1,524 metres5). The jetpack, invented by New Zealander, Glenn Martin, is a small flying device for one person. It was named one of the world’s top 10 inventions in 2010. |
| 2011 | World’s first flying car | The Transition® by Terrafugia is a roadable aircraft – an airplane that can take off and land at any airport and, with the push of a button, fold up its wings and drive down the road. |
| 2016 | Solar flight around the world | Solar Impulse 2 is the first plane powered by a renewable energy source to tour the globe. The Solar Impulse website has further information. |
| 2019 | Electric aircraft | In December the world’s first fully-electric aircraft for commercial flight completed a test in Canada. |
| 2020 | first electric airplane to secure a type of certificate | The Pipistrel Velis Electro became the first electric airplane to secure a type certificate from EASA. |
Learn more about benjamin-franklin-inventions.
Sources: encyclopedia.com, wright-brothers.org, sciencelearn.org.nz, wikipedia.com, flyingboatmuseum.com
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