Public Figure

The Wright Brothers

In 1903, Wilbur and Orville Wright, inspired by their childhood fascination with flight and motivated by the progress of others in aviation, began their journey to build a flying machine. Their mechanical skills honed from running a bicycle business, the brothers delved into aviation experiments, developing their theories and seeking solutions for controlled flight. Overcoming challenges like lateral control, they tested their ideas with kites and gliders.

By 1903, they had designed a 12-second flight was made by Orville in the Wright Flyer, the first powered airplane to achieve controlled takeoff, forward motion, and landing. This pivotal event marked the beginning of powered aviation, paving the way for incredible advancements in air travel and exploration in the years to come.

Wilbur Wright making right run in glide from West Hill, Oct. 24, 1902 with Kill Devil Hill in background.

"If birds can glide for long periods of time, then… why can't I?"

Keanu Reeves