Most likely as early man watched birds soar through the air; mankind's desire to fly was kindled. Some think that the earliest flight began with the concept of being able to float by harnessing hot air. The history of hot air balloons has been lengthy and celebrated. China used hot air lanterns for military signals and France utilized hot air to make the first successful tethered passenger flight.
Modern day hot air balloons are amazing to see. They come in quite a wide variety of shapes and sizes in addition to the original balloon shape. Even though it is called hot air balloon racing, the focus is on accuracy rather than speed. Each year hot air balloon festivals are held in every corner of the globe, allowing the audience to watch in awe as the balloonistsB race and show off their balloons.
Orville and Wilbur Wright are recognized as the first people to accomplish sustained and controlled heavier-than-air powered flight in 1903. But man's fascination with flight began centuries earlier. To those who paved the way in aviation with the use of hot air balloons, we owe a debt of gratitude.
There has been an ongoing stream of progress in aviation during the last hundred years, thanks to the work and ideas of early pioneers. Beginning with hot air balloons and progressing to airplanes and space shuttles, we have seen much technological advancement in the field of avionics over the years. We wait with hope and anticipation for what the future holds for aviation.
