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The Flying Machine
Leonardo Da Vinci draws detailed plans for a flying machine after studying the flight of birds. -
The Start of Powered Flight
Felix du Temple makes the first attempt at powered flight by hopping off the end of a ramp in a steam-driven monoplane. He fails. -
Successful Powered Flight
Sir Hiram Maxim makes a successful takeoff. However, it is uncontrolled. At the same time, Otto Lilienthal makes the first controlled flights. He maintains control by shifting his body weight to steer the small glider. However, Lilienthal's glider is not powered. -
The Wright Brothers
Inspired by Lilienthal's success, Wilbur and Orville Wright begin experimenting with aerodynamics. Eventually, they make the first controlled, sustained, powered flight on December 17, 1903, in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. -
The Impact
Immediately after the Wright Brother's success, they begin to develop their experimental aircraft into a marketable product. Other experimenters learn of their work and begin to build on their success. -
Airplanes in World War I
Although not essential in the beginning of the war, airplanes began to play an important role by the end of WWI. -
Airplanes in World War II
Airplanes in WWII were used as fighters, bombers, and transport planes. -
Airplanes Today
Today, airplanes are used by many people as a mode of transportation. They allow people to travel great distances quickly.
