Historical Events tagged with "early flight"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Transportation & Infrastructure

Harry Atwood's Historic White House Landing

July 14th, 1911 113 years ago

Harry Atwood, an exhibition pilot associated with the Wright brothers, achieved a remarkable feat by landing his aircraft on the South Lawn of the White House after flying from Boston. This aviation milestone was met with great enthusiasm as President William Howard Taft greeted Atwood upon his arrival. The successful flight showcased the growing fascination with aviation and demonstrated the capabilities of early aircraft.

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Transportation & Infrastructure

First Seaplane Flight by Henri Fabre

March 28th, 1910 114 years ago

Henri Fabre successfully flew the Fabre Hydravion, marking a significant milestone in aviation history. He took off from the water runway of Étang le Barre near Marseille, France, showcasing the potential of flying boats. This achievement set the stage for future advancements in seaplane design and flight, demonstrating the effectiveness of amphibious aircraft for both military and civilian applications. Fabre's pioneering flight came after years of experimentation, propelling him into the annals of aviation.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Eugène Lefebvre's Fatal Wright Biplane Crash

September 7th, 1909 115 years ago

Eugène Lefebvre, a pioneer aviator, tragically lost his life while piloting a French-built Wright biplane during a test flight in Juvisy, south of Paris. The aircraft was undergoing testing when a malfunction occurred, leading to a crash that claimed Lefebvre's life. His efforts to improve aviation during this nascent era were met with peril, and this incident marked a poignant moment in the history of flight, highlighting the dangers faced by early aviators in their quest for advancement.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Wright Flyer Crash Kills Lt. Thomas Selfridge

September 17th, 1908 116 years ago

Orville Wright piloted the Wright Flyer with Lieutenant Thomas Selfridge aboard during a demonstration flight in Fort Myer, Virginia. After a successful flight, the aircraft experienced a catastrophic failure and crashed to the ground. Selfridge suffered severe injuries and succumbed shortly after the accident, marking him as the first person to die in an airplane crash.

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Science & Technology

Karl Jatho's Early Flight with Gliding Airplane

August 18th, 1903 121 years ago

German engineer Karl Jatho claimed to have achieved powered flight with his self-made airplane in August. Jatho's aircraft was equipped with a 50-horsepower engine and glided short distances. The flight took place in Germany, where Jatho had been experimenting with various designs. His claims receive limited recognition compared to the Wright brothers, who would achieve their notable flight later that year, sparking debates about the true pioneer of flight.

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