DEVELOPMENT OF AVIATION

Key Milestones in the Development of the Aviation Industry

Key Milestones in the Development of the Aviation Industry

Introduction

The history of modern aviation extends over a hundred years. Throughout these years, major developments in technology have resulted in the manufacturing of aircraft that can carry hundreds of passengers and fly them half way around the world (Dierikx, 2008, p. 45-48). Journeys that used to take weeks by ship can easily be covered in a few hours thanks to the developments that have taken place.

Since the past two thousand years, man has been trying to imitate birds in order to fly. Efforts were made by several people but all plans resulted in failure. The reason for failure was that people tried to copy birds and in doing so did not look at the aerodynamic features of flight. Man finally began to fly with the help of hot air balloons. Although they were slow, they gained popularity because for the very first time, man was able to fly. These balloons were used to transport people, animals, and goods across rivers and plains and marked the beginning of the aviation industry. The aviation industry today is very different and employs around 31.9 million people directly and indirectly (Dierikx, 2008, p. 45-48).

Currently, the aviation industry has developed to an extent that several aircraft land and take off every second and millions of flights are flown each year. At any given moment of time, there are thousands of aircraft in the air (Vegesack, Eisenbrand, 2004, p. 65-69).

Aviation Pioneer

When it comes to determining the pioneers of aviation, the Wright Brothers lead the way. Orville and Wilbur Wright created history in1903 when they invented an aircraft that could fly using engine power. They started from the basics by researching the way kites fly and finally ended up inventing a real plane. The reason they are considered the pioneers of aviation is because they are credited with the invention of the aircraft. Life would have been much more difficult without the Wright brothers due to which they are considered the most influential people in the history of aviation (Shea, 2005, p. 47-48).

Before the Wright brother first flew their plane, several people have tried to create a flying machine but failed. Some designs ended up as concepts while others ended up in disaster. However, dreams were turned into reality by the Wright brothers.

The long-term impact from the invention of the Wright brothers can be seen today as planes like the Airbus A-380 and Boeing 777 carry hundreds of people on a single trip alone with tons of cargo (Goddard, 2003, p. 14-18). Similarly, aircraft are being considered the most effective weapon in war and conflicts as it gives the armed forces significant advantages. The development of combat aircrafts like the F-16, and Su-30 has changed the way battles are fought. The efforts that began with the right brothers are still continuing today and hence supersonic flights are also now possible (Shea, 2005, ...