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First Generation Control Systems
In 1903, the Wright Brothers create the first plane ever. Subsequently, during the period of 1903-1945, we see advancing technologies in planes such as the "NC4", and the "The Spirit of St. Louis". We also see the planes "PanAm" and "BOAC" traveling from Newfoundland to Foynes and vice verse, being the first Transatlantic Proving flights to take place. -
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Second Generation Flight Control Systems
After more transatlantic passenger flights take place, there is a boom in the usage of landplanes, until 1949. Afterwards, there is a revolutionary shift in flight technologies, after the release of the first commercial jet airliner, the "De Havilland DH 106 Comet". -
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Third Generation Flight Control Systems
At around the time we first land on the moon, Boeing releases the 747. This completely revolutionises flight control systems, as the Boeing 747 was the first aircraft in the evolution of the Boeing series, to have a fully powered and functioning actuation system. -
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Fourth Generation Flight Control Systems
Aérospatiale and the British Aircraft Corporation unite to develop the "Concorde" in the period of 1970-1979, the first and only supersonic civilian aircraft. The first reusable spacecraft, "Space Shuttle", is also launched, revolutionising aircraft to being able to fly to space. -
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Fifth Generation Flight Control Systems
NASA sends the "Mars Pathfinder" to Mars to commence the first exploration on the surface of another planet. Additionally, The first nonstop, round-the-world flight by solar and battery-powered airplane is completed. Airbus release the A380 double-decker civilian passenger jet. Virgin Galactic are also starting to consider how civilian passenger flight into space will be possible.