Aviation History Month – November 1, 2026

History of Aviation History Month

The history of aviation started in 350 B.C. when the Chinese began making kites using bamboo frames covered in paper and silk. This resulted in people wondering if there was a way for them to fly too. Thereafter, several inventors conceptualized ways to fly but it was Leonardo da Vinci who was responsible for designing parachutes and helicopters that our modern-day innovations are based on. However, the first glider was not built until 1799 by Sir George Cayley and the very first sustained, controlled flight, which took place in December 1903, is attributed to Orville Wright and Wilbur Wright. They are the individuals who changed the aviation industry permanently.

While many men managed to excel in the field of aviation, it wasn’t until 1910 that the first woman received a pilot’s license. Another famous female aviator is Amelia Earhart, who is recognised for flying solo across the Atlantic Ocean. With time, aviation became used to fight wars since it was the fastest way to attack an enemy. In 1941, the 99th Pursuit Squadron was formed at Tuskegee. The squadron comprised African-American pilots and became known as the Tuskegee Airmen.

Since aviation plays such an important role in modern society, it comes as no surprise that it is celebrated with great fervor. Apart from a month dedicated to the invention, National Aviation Day is also celebrated on August 19. This day was established by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1939. However, since the history of aviation is so detailed and exemplary, an entire month was eventually dedicated to it.