"A period of intense activity in the study of aerodynamics began In the 1880s. Daring pioneers designed gliders made of little more than wood and canvas and risked their lives to further our knowledge of flight. Louis Bleriots cross-channel flight of 1909 was made in a simple monoplane with a three-c"
"Before the advent of high-strength metal alloys and reliable welding techniques, the most effective way of making a light, rigid airframe was to build it in wood and brace it with wire. There was nothing simple or crude about such structures, which employed hundreds of intricate metal fittings and c"
"Exposed to the elements and heat and fumes from the engine mounted just in front of his feet, the Bleriot's pilot did not enjoy much comfort. The fuel tank was almost in the pilot's lap and there was no protection from fire. The only instrument was an oil pressure gauge. Airspeed and slip"were judge"