The dream of flying has involved centuries of ideas, developments, successes and failures. But the dream became a reality.
The human dream of flying dates back at least to Greek mythology, when the young Icarus attempted to flee the island of Crete with rudimentary wings. Since that time, there have been many visionaries who, with varying degrees of success, designed contraptions that attempted to emulate birds. Abbas Ibn Firnas (9th century), Leonardo da Vinci (15th century) or the Montgolfier brothers (18th century) are part of a long list of pioneers, scientists, adventurers and enthusiasts who marked significant milestones in the history of aircraft.
However, the true turning point was marked by the first heavier-than-air aircraft at the end of the 19th century. Since the Aeolus Germany Clément Ader in 1890 (unrecognised by some) or the Flyer I of the Wright Brothers In 1903, aeronautics had not stopped evolving. And it still continues to do so today.
The objective pursued in the evolution of aircraft has been changing over the years. While at first the challenge was to keep aircraft airborne for longer and travel greater distances, it later became gradually increasing passenger or cargo capacity. Speed was another of the barriers that had to be overcome step by step until the current SR-71 record was reached. Currently, almost all advances in aircraft are focused towards efficiency and safety improvements.
Furthermore, we have the privilege of living in an era where we are even considering changes to aspects of aircraft design that have previously seemed unalterable. As an example, we could mention pilotless aircraft or planes that use non-fossil fuel energy. One day, not too far off, these concepts will become a reality and will undoubtedly become part of the historical narrative.
This infographic is not intended to be a systematic and thorough historical account of aircraft, as we would not have enough space to recount all the events that have occurred. On the contrary, it is a review of the main milestones –some little-known ones– that have set trends in aircraft evolution or have represented important achievements in the development of aviation solutions.
We invite you to download it, enjoy it and share it.
Source: Own elaboration.
The contents of this document are the intellectual property of AERTEC Solutions. Any copying or distribution is permitted, provided that the document is reproduced in its entirety and that the AERTEC Solutions logo is preserved at all times.
