Planes that Transformed Aviation

                Aviation has transformed greatly since the Wright Brothers’ first successful plane.  Let’s take a look through some of the largest transformations in aviation history.

                It all started with the Wright 1905 Flyer which was the first airplane to have independent three-axis control, and labeled as “the world’s first practical airplane”.  The Bleriot XI started the monoplane tradition of placing the engine in the front.  The Deperdussin Monocoque started a global design standard with its stressed-skin shell structure and led to streamlining improvements which is still seen in today’s airplanes.  The Il’ya Muromets was revolutionary due to its dual use in civil and military work.  This four-engine biplane had dual controls for a pilot and co-pilot, a cabin containing a restroom, private suite, bed, and balcony, and cabin heating and lighting.  Junkers J-13 utilized a thicker wing which allowed for greater lift, and cantilever wings.  The Dornier Wal was the first aircraft to provide the ability to significantly study the Earth, in particular, the polar regions.  The Lockheed XC-35 led the way for modern airliners as it became the first aircraft with a pressurized passenger cabin, while the Heinkel He 178 was the first jet airplane.  The XP-86 was the first swept wing introduced to the aviation world, allowing it to reach much higher speeds than those prior with its ability to delay drag rise and shock wave formation.   The first supersonic plane, the Bell XS-1, made its appearance in 1947.  The YF-16, a U.S. fighter plane, saw the newest technological advances with its “computer-controlled, electronic ‘fly by wire’ flight control system”. 

Thanks to all of these great innovations and transformations aviation has progressed tremendously over the past century and continues to provide promising outlooks for the future.

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