Henri Giffard

Henri Giffard was a French engineer and inventor, best known for creating the first powered, steerable airship in 1852. His dirigible used a steam engine to propel and steer through the air, marking a significant advancement in aviation technology. Giffard's design demonstrated that controlled, powered flight was possible, laying foundational ideas for future developments in air transportation. His work contributed to the evolution of lighter-than-air craft and helped inspire subsequent innovations in aviation.