One Hundred Years of Flight - USAF Chronology of Significant Air and Space Events 1903-2002

Commemorating the first century of aviation, this chronology is dedicated to the men and women who gave their lives to advance air and space flight. It includes significant air and space events since the Wright brothers first demonstrated in 1903 that humankind could fly in heavier-than-air machines. Although focused on the evolution of the United States Air Force (USAF). it also includes major developments in military, naval, civil, and international air power. Until World War I, military leaders had conceived of the airplane primarily as a reconnaissance and artillery-spotting tool. By the end of 1918, however, the airplane was already performing other missions, including air superiority, strategic bombardment, interdiction, close air support, and airlift. Aviation continued to evolve after the war. as evidenced by increased aircraft ranges, altitudes, and speeds. These growing capabilities allowed transcontinental and transoceanic flights as well as encouraged airline service and airmail.