Calendar

We invite you to discover the fascinating history of aviation through our interactive calendar.

9 October

1890

136 years ago

Steam-Powered Éole Aircraft

According to reports unconfirmed by official documents, French engineer and inventor Clément Ader made a 50-metre, uncontrolled flight in the steam-powered Éole aircraft. If confirmed, this feat would be the first take-off of a heavier-than-air machine in history.

9 October

1999

27 years ago

End of Blackbird Service

The last flight of the American Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird took place. This long-range strategic reconnaissance aircraft was the fastest aircraft in air force service in history. Its cruising speed was Mach 3.2.