The Wright Flyer

The Wright Flyer was the first successful powered airplane, built by Orville and Wilbur Wright in 1903. It featured a lightweight wooden frame, fabric-covered wings, and a unique control system that allowed the pilot to steer effectively. Powered by a custom-built engine, it could fly short distances in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. Its achievement marked the beginning of modern aviation, demonstrating that controlled, sustained flight was possible with mechanical ingenuity and understanding of aerodynamics. The Flyer’s success laid the groundwork for the development of all future airplanes.