The story of flight is a tapestry woven by many hands, and the early 20th century saw a remarkable constellation of pioneers of aviation who pushed the boundaries of what was thought possible.
These individuals, from varied backgrounds and nations, shared a common sky where they wrote their extraordinary stories.
They were inventors, adventurers, and dreamers, each contributing a unique thread to the evolving narrative of aviation.
Their achievements not only charted new courses in the skies but also transformed perceptions and possibilities on the ground, reshaping our world in profound ways.
This blog post will explore the remarkable journeys and contributions of 19 such aviation pioneers.
From the Wright brothersâ groundbreaking first flight to Amelia Earhartâs daring transatlantic feats, and from the innovative designs of Igor Sikorsky to the relentless advocacy of Billy Mitchell, each pioneer played a pivotal role in the advancement of aviation.
Their stories of triumph, tragedy, and tireless innovation offer a fascinating glimpse into an era where the sky was not the limit, but a beginning.
Join us as we embark on this journey through the clouds, tracing the flight paths of these extraordinary individuals who turned the dream of flight into a reality.
The Details: 19 Trailblazing Pioneers of Aviation
Kicking off our list of 19 esteemed pioneers in aviation is none other than Wilbur Wright.
Alongside his brother Orville, Wilbur laid the foundational groundwork for modern aviation, changing the course of history with their groundbreaking flight in 1903.
1. Wilbur Wright (1903)
Wilbur Wright, one of the earliest figures among aviation pioneers, made significant solo contributions as well as collaborative efforts with his brother Orville.
Independently, Wilbur developed innovative theories on aerodynamic control, shaping the future of flight design.
Together, the Wright brothers achieved the first powered, controlled, and sustained flight in 1903.
This historic event near Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, heralded a new era in aviation.
Furthermore, their partnership led to the refinement of flight controls, essential for modern aviation.
Wilburâs expertise, both solo and with Orville, was instrumental in laying the foundation for the aviation industry.
His legacy, deeply intertwined with his brotherâs, continues to inspire and influence.
2. Orville Wright
Orville Wright, another early figure among aviation pioneers, significantly contributed both individually and in collaboration with his brother Wilbur.
On his own, Orville brought essential mechanical skills and innovative thinking to the field of flight.
Together, they achieved the first successful powered flight in 1903, a landmark moment in aviation history.
This breakthrough, achieved near Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, revolutionized the way humanity viewed air travel.
Additionally, Orville played a critical role in refining and demonstrating their flying inventions worldwide.
His individual talents, combined with Wilburâs, solidified the Wright brothersâ legacy as foundational figures in the development of aviation.
Orvilleâs contributions, both solo and alongside Wilbur, remain a cornerstone in the story of flight.
3. Paul Cornu (1907)
Paul Cornu, often overlooked but crucial among pioneers in aviation, made a groundbreaking contribution in the early 20th century.
In 1907, Cornu designed and flew the first helicopter capable of free flight with a pilot.
This pioneering achievement, although brief and contested, marked a significant milestone in rotary-winged flight.
Unlike his contemporaries focused on fixed-wing aircraft, Cornuâs vision was unique.
His design, featuring twin rotors, laid the foundational principles for modern helicopters.
Moreover, his innovative approach to vertical flight challenged the conventional focus on airplanes.
Sadly, Cornuâs helicopter did not lead to immediate practical developments.
Yet, his foresight and experimentation significantly advanced the understanding of vertical flight.
Cornuâs work, a blend of ingenuity and daring, remains a testament to the diverse paths of early aviation exploration.
4. Glenn Curtiss (Early 1900s)
Glenn Curtiss, a prominent name among pioneers in aviation, revolutionized early flight in the 20th century.
Initially a motorcycle builder, his transition to aviation was marked by his expertise in engines.
This led to the creation of the 1908 June Bug, achieving the first officially recognized public flight in America.
Furthermore, Curtiss was instrumental in advancing aircraft design, notably developing the aileron, a critical component for controlling roll.
His innovative contributions extended to naval aviation, pioneering the first successful takeoff and landing on a ship.
In 1910, he founded the Curtiss Aeroplane and Motor Company, becoming a major producer of aircraft for World War I.
Curtissâs legacy, shaped by his technical skills and entrepreneurial spirit, significantly influenced the direction of early aviation.
His work, diverse and impactful, solidified his status as a foundational figure in the history of flight.
5. Alberto Santos-Dumont (Early 1900s)
Alberto Santos-Dumont, a standout among aviation pioneers, played a pivotal role in the fieldâs early developments.
A Brazilian inventor, he gained fame in Paris with his lighter-than-air dirigibles in the early 1900s.
His most notable achievement was the 14-bis, a heavier-than-air aircraft, which in 1906 made one of the first public flights in Europe.
This feat challenged the Wright brothersâ claim to the first powered flight, sparking international interest in aviation.
Additionally, Santos-Dumontâs design philosophies, emphasizing simplicity and practicality, influenced early aircraft development.
His Demoiselle monoplane, developed in 1907, was one of the worldâs first series production aircraft.
Known for his flamboyant personality and passion for making flight accessible, Santos-Dumont inspired many in Europe and South America.
His contributions, marked by innovation and accessibility, hold a significant place in the annals of aviation history.
6. Louis BlÊriot (1909)
Louis BlÊriot, an eminent figure among flight pioneers, made a historic mark in the early 20th century.
Initially an engineering entrepreneur, his focus shifted to aviation, where he experimented with various aircraft designs.
His most significant achievement came in 1909 when he became the first person to fly across the English Channel.
This daring feat, accomplished in his BlÊriot XI monoplane, not only won him widespread fame but also proved the practicality of aircraft for long-distance travel.
Moreover, the BlÊriot XIâs design influenced future monoplanes, thanks to its innovative features like an enclosed fuselage and steerable front wheel.
BlÊriotâs success in the Channel crossing catapulted him into a leading position in the aviation industry, and he subsequently founded BlÊriot AÊronautique, a pioneering aviation company.
His vision and daring, combined with technical skill, significantly advanced the development of aviation during its nascent stage.
7. Harriet Quimby (1911)
Harriet Quimby stands out as a trailblazer among women aviation pioneers during the early 20th century.
In 1911, she became the first woman in the United States to earn a pilotâs license, shattering gender barriers in a male-dominated field.
Notably, in 1912, she made history again by becoming the first woman to fly across the English Channel, a feat that garnered less attention due to the sinking of the Titanic just days earlier.
Her vibrant personality and flair for fashion, often flying in a distinctive purple satin flying suit, made her an iconic figure in early aviation.
Moreover, Quimby contributed as a journalist, writing about aviation and inspiring others, particularly women, to pursue flying.
Her tragic death in an aviation accident in 1912, at the age of 37, cut short a remarkable career.
Nevertheless, her pioneering spirit and achievements left a lasting legacy, paving the way for future female aviators.
8. Eugene Ely (1911)
Eugene Ely, a lesser-known but significant figure among pioneers in aviation, made groundbreaking contributions in the early 20th century.
In 1910, Ely achieved a major milestone by completing the first takeoff from a ship, catapulting him into the limelight.
This feat, performed on the USS Birmingham, demonstrated the potential for naval aviation.
Following this, Ely continued to break barriers by executing the first successful landing on a ship, the USS Pennsylvania, in 1911.
These historic achievements laid the groundwork for the development of aircraft carriers.
Elyâs innovative spirit was further exemplified by his modifications to aircraft, improving their suitability for naval operations.
Tragically, his career was cut short when he died in a crash at an air meet in 1911.
Despite his brief career, Elyâs daring and vision significantly advanced the integration of aviation into naval operations, marking him as a true pioneer in the field.
9. Geoffrey de Havilland (Early 20th Century)
Geoffrey de Havilland, a key figure among pioneers in aviation, significantly influenced early 20th-century aircraft design and manufacturing.
Beginning his career in aviation with the construction of his first biplane in 1910, de Havillandâs designs were noted for their innovation and practicality.
In 1920, he founded the De Havilland Aircraft Company, which became renowned for producing a series of important military and civilian aircraft.
His creations, like the famous De Havilland Mosquito, were pivotal during World War II, and known for their speed and versatility.
Additionally, de Havillandâs company was instrumental in developing the Comet, the worldâs first commercial jet airliner, in 1949.
This marked a significant leap in aviation technology and passenger air travel.
De Havillandâs legacy in aviation spans from pioneering designs in the era of biplanes to the dawn of the jet age, reflecting his enduring impact on the industry.
His contributions to both military and commercial aviation are a testament to his vision and ingenuity.
10. Eddie Rickenbacker
Eddie Rickenbacker, an illustrious figure among aviation pioneers, left an indelible mark as a fighter ace during World War I.
Before the war, Rickenbacker was a successful race car driver, but his passion for speed soon led him to the skies.
In 1917, he joined the U.S. Air Service and quickly distinguished himself as a skillful and daring pilot.
Rickenbackerâs most notable contribution was as a fighter pilot, where he achieved 26 aerial victories, making him Americaâs most successful fighter ace of the war.
His bravery and skills earned him the Medal of Honor, exemplifying his heroism.
Post-war, Rickenbacker continued to influence aviation as an advocate for air transportation and military air power.
In 1938, he became the head of Eastern Air Lines, transforming it into a highly successful airline.
Rickenbackerâs journey from race car driver to aviation legend highlights his versatility and pioneering spirit in advancing both military and commercial aviation sectors.
11. Billy Mitchell (Early 1920s)
Billy Mitchell, a visionary among pioneers of aviation, played a pivotal role in the development of military air power in the early 20th century.
As a U.S. Army general, Mitchell was a staunch advocate for the use of aircraft in warfare, foreseeing their potential long before many of his contemporaries.
During World War I, he commanded air combat units with great success, demonstrating the effectiveness of aerial operations.
Post-war, Mitchell vocally criticized the traditional views of the military establishment, pushing for greater investment in air power.
In 1921, he famously orchestrated a series of bombing tests on captured warships, proving that aircraft could sink battleships, a concept that was revolutionary at the time.
These demonstrations significantly influenced naval strategy and the development of aircraft carriers.
Despite facing court-martial for his outspoken views, Mitchellâs legacy endured, earning him recognition as the father of the U.S. Air Force.
His foresight and relentless advocacy fundamentally shaped the role of aviation in modern military strategy.
12. Bessie Coleman (Mid-1920s)
Bessie Coleman, a trailblazing figure among pioneers in aviation, broke racial and gender barriers in the early 20th century.
As an African American and Native American woman, she faced significant obstacles in the United States, leading her to pursue aviation training in France.
In 1921, Coleman became the first woman of African American and Native-American descent to earn an international pilotâs license.
Her return to the U.S. was marked by spectacular aerial shows, where she earned the nickname âQueen Bess.â
Colemanâs performances not only showcased her remarkable flying skills but also challenged prevailing racial and gender prejudices of the time.
She became a powerful symbol of determination and equality, inspiring a generation of African American and female pilots.
Colemanâs advocacy for African American participation in aviation was unwavering.
Tragically, her life and career were cut short in an aviation accident in 1926.
Despite this, her pioneering spirit and achievements left a lasting impact on the history of aviation.
13. Charles Lindbergh (1927)
Charles Lindbergh, a legendary figure among aviation pioneers, catapulted to international fame in 1927 with a historic feat.
He completed the first solo nonstop transatlantic flight, flying from New York to Paris in the Spirit of St. Louis.
This 33-hour journey not only showcased his extraordinary piloting skills but also marked a turning point in aviation history.
Lindberghâs achievement dramatically demonstrated the potential of long-distance air travel and boosted public interest in aviation.
Additionally, his flight spurred significant advancements in aircraft design and navigational techniques.
Beyond this, Lindbergh was an advocate for aviation safety and a consultant for commercial aviation, contributing to the development of various aircraft.
He also undertook various diplomatic and military roles, further underscoring his multifaceted impact on aviation.
Lindberghâs pioneering spirit, coupled with his historic transatlantic flight, solidified his place as an icon in the annals of aviation history.
For more on this early aviation great, check out my article Flight Pioneer: 10 Interesting Facts About Charles Lindbergh!
14. Amelia Earhart (1932)
Amelia Earhart, a defining figure among pioneers of aviation, left an indelible mark with her daring and accomplishments.
In 1928, she gained international fame as the first woman to fly across the Atlantic, albeit as a passenger.
This experience fueled her ambition, leading to her solo transatlantic flight in 1932, making her the first woman to achieve this feat.
Earhartâs achievements didnât stop there; she set numerous aviation records, including being the first woman to fly solo across the American continent and back.
Her charismatic personality and advocacy for women in aviation made her a role model and a symbol of the aspirations of women of her era.
Beyond flying, Earhart was a successful author, writing about her flying experiences to inspire others.
Tragically, her mysterious disappearance in 1937 during an attempt to circumnavigate the globe only amplified her legend.
Earhartâs pioneering spirit and contributions to aviation continue to inspire and captivate people worldwide.
Check out my post on Amelia Earhart, Aviation Trailblazer: 10 Interesting Facts About Amelia Earhart, for more on this fascinating heroine of early aviation history.
15. Antoine de Saint-ExupÊry (1920s-1930s)
Antoine de Saint-ExupÊry celebrated not only for his literary work but also as one of the key aviation pioneers, made significant contributions in the early 20th century.
As a pioneering aviator, he flew for the AÊropostale, a French mail courier service, pioneering commercial aviation routes over Africa and South America.
His experiences as a pilot greatly influenced his writing, leading to classics like âNight Flightâ and âWind, Sand, and Stars,â which reflect the challenges and philosophy of early flight.
In the 1930s, Saint-ExupÊry set aviation records, including a Paris-to-Saigon air race record.
His work in establishing new air routes and his writings about the human experience of flight brought him international acclaim.
Sadly, his life ended prematurely during a reconnaissance mission in World War II.
Saint-ExupÊryâs legacy, blending his aviation achievements with his profound literary contributions, continues to inspire and captivate, highlighting the humanistic aspect of the early aviation era.
16. Igor Sikorsky (1939)
Igor Sikorsky, a visionary among pioneers of aviation, dramatically transformed the landscape of the field in the 20th century.
Born in Russia, he initially focused on fixed-wing aircraft, designing the first four-engine bomber in 1913.
However, his enduring legacy stems from his work in the United States, where he immigrated following the Russian Revolution.
In 1939, Sikorsky achieved a monumental breakthrough with the Vought-Sikorsky VS-300, the first successful single-rotor helicopter in the United States.
This invention laid the foundation for modern helicopter design, offering versatility in aviation previously unimagined.
Sikorskyâs pioneering work continued with the development of the R-4, the worldâs first mass-produced helicopter, used extensively during World War II.
His company, Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, became a leader in the helicopter industry, producing iconic models like the UH-60 Black Hawk.
Sikorskyâs innovations in vertical flight significantly expanded aviationâs capabilities, making him a pivotal figure in the history of flight.
17. Howard Hughes (1930s-1940s)
Howard Hughes, an iconic figure among pioneers in aviation, left a profound impact on both aviation and aerospace fields.
Starting as a film producer, Hughesâs passion for aviation led him to establish the Hughes Aircraft Company in 1932.
His most famous achievement was the H-1 Racer, which in 1935 set a landplane airspeed record of 352 mph, showcasing his commitment to innovation.
Additionally, Hughesâs push for excellence led to the creation of the Spruce Goose, one of the largest flying boats ever built, demonstrating his ambition and engineering prowess.
Beyond aircraft design, Hughes was instrumental in advancing transcontinental and transworld air travel through TWA, bringing significant innovations like pressurized cabins to commercial aviation.
His endeavors, marked by record-setting flights and pioneering aircraft, not only pushed the boundaries of aviation technology but also laid the groundwork for future aerospace exploration. Hughesâs legacy as a visionary in aviation continues to inspire advancements in the field.
18. Elmer Fowler Stone
Elmer Fowler Stone, a significant yet often overlooked figure among aviation pioneers, made his mark in both naval and aerial realms.
As a member of the U.S. Coast Guard, Stoneâs early interest in aviation led him to become one of the first Coast Guard aviators, receiving Naval Aviator Certificate No. 38 in 1917.
His most notable achievement was as the pilot of the NC-4, the first aircraft to make a transatlantic flight in 1919.
This historic flight, from Newfoundland to Portugal, with stops in the Azores, was a pivotal moment in demonstrating the feasibility of long-distance air travel.
Furthermore, Stoneâs contributions extended to developing navigational techniques for over-water flights, essential for future transoceanic aviation.
His work in both improving flight safety and advancing aviation technology significantly impacted the development of aerial navigation and maritime patrol.
Stoneâs legacy as a pioneer in aviation is marked by his dedication to pushing the boundaries of early flight and bridging the gap between sea and air operations.
19. Jean Batten (1930s)
Jean Batten, a remarkable figure among pioneers in aviation, etched her name in history with her record-breaking solo flights in the 1930s.
Hailing from New Zealand, Batten rose to fame in 1934 when she became the first woman to fly solo from England to Australia, breaking Amy Johnsonâs record.
Her daring did not stop there; in 1935, she made a solo flight from England to Brazil, setting a record for the fastest flight across the South Atlantic.
Furthermore, in 1936, she completed the first direct flight between England and New Zealand, solidifying her status as an international aviation icon.
Battenâs achievements extended beyond breaking records; she symbolized the spirit of adventure and the breaking of gender barriers in a predominantly male-dominated field.
Her legacy, marked by skill, courage, and determination, continues to inspire aviators worldwide, celebrating her contribution as a trailblazing pioneer in aviation.
Wrap-up: 19 Pioneers of Aviation
As we reflect on the incredible achievements of these 19 aviation pioneers, it becomes evident how their courage, ingenuity, and perseverance have shaped the world we live in today.
These trailblazers in aviation not only conquered the skies but also expanded the horizons of human potential and innovation.
Their legacy is not just in the records they set or the aircraft they designed, but in the indomitable spirit of exploration and progress that they embodied.
They remind us that with vision and determination, the once impossible can become a reality.
In closing, the stories of these pioneers in aviation are a testament to the enduring human quest for exploration and discovery.
They serve as an inspiration to future generations to continue pushing boundaries and exploring new frontiers.
As we look up at the sky, itâs important to remember the brave men and women who turned the wild dream of flight into a cornerstone of modern life, paving the way for the advancements we see in the skies above us today.
Their legacy soars on, as limitless and enduring as the sky they once navigated.
FAQs: 19 Pioneers of Aviation
Sir George Cayley, often hailed as the âFather of Aviation,â was a pioneering English engineer and one of the most important figures in the early history of aeronautics.
His contributions to the understanding of aerodynamics and flight mechanics laid the groundwork for modern aeronautics.
Here are key reasons why he holds this esteemed title:
Early Theoretical Foundations: Cayley formulated the basic principles of heavier-than-air flight and is credited with the first scientific approach to understanding and building flying machines.
He identified the four aerodynamic forces of flight â weight, lift, drag, and thrust â and their relationships, which remain fundamental to the science of flight.
Practical Experiments: Cayley built and tested various flying models and full-scale gliders. His experiments were among the first to prove that a fixed-wing aircraft with a control system would be able to fly.
First Successful Human Glider Flight: In 1853, Cayley designed and built a full-size glider that successfully carried his coachman across Brompton Dale in the North of England.
This was the first recorded instance of an adult human achieving sustained flight in a heavier-than-air craft.
Innovative Designs: His designs included elements that are part of modern airplanes, such as a cruciform tail, adjustable weights to alter the center of gravity, and movable control surfaces.
Advocacy and Vision: Cayley promoted the idea of powered flight and the potential of aviation. He envisioned a future where aircraft would become a common mode of transport.
Cayleyâs work, spanning the late 18th and early 19th centuries, predates other aviation pioneers by several decades.
His visionary approach and scientific study of flight dynamics established the foundation upon which future aviators and engineers, such as the Wright brothers, built.
For these reasons, Sir George Cayley is revered as the father of aviation.
The first pilot of a manned flight is a subject of debate and depends on the criteria used to define âflight.â However, two figures are commonly mentioned in this context:
Jean-François PilÃĸtre de Rozier and François Laurent dâArlandes (1783): These two Frenchmen are credited with the first manned flight in a hot air balloon.
On November 21, 1783, in Paris, they flew in a hot air balloon designed by the Montgolfier brothers, marking the first time humans flew in a lighter-than-air vehicle.
Orville Wright (1903): If the definition of flight includes powered, heavier-than-air, and controlled aircraft, then Orville Wright is recognized as the first pilot.
On December 17, 1903, in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, Orville piloted the Wright Flyer for 12 seconds over a distance of 120 feet, achieving the first sustained and controlled airplane flight.
The distinction between these achievements lies in the type of flight: the Montgolfier balloon was a lighter-than-air craft that was not powered or fully controllable, whereas the Wright Flyer was a heavier-than-air, powered, and controllable aircraft.
Eddie Rickenbacker, an American fighter ace during World War I, had an impressive combat record. Here are some key aspects of his service:
Ace Status: Rickenbacker was Americaâs most successful fighter ace in the war. Being an âaceâ required achieving at least five aerial victories.
Aerial Victories: He is officially credited with 26 confirmed aerial victories, which includes both individual and shared kills.
This record made him the top American ace of the war.
Medal of Honor: Rickenbacker was awarded the Medal of Honor, the United Statesâ highest military decoration, for his actions on September 25, 1918.
During this mission, he led a group of seven pilots in combat and, despite being severely outnumbered by the enemy, managed to shoot down two German planes.
Distinguished Service Cross: He received the Distinguished Service Cross a total of eight times for extraordinary heroism in combat.
This is a testament to his bravery and skill as a pilot.
Service with the 94th Aero Squadron: Rickenbacker served with the 94th Aero Squadron, famously known as the âHat in the Ringâ squadron.
This unit was the first all-American air combat squadron to fight on the Western Front in World War I.
Combat Tactics and Leadership: Rickenbacker was known for his aggressive tactics and effective leadership.
He developed his combat skills quickly and was respected by both his peers and subordinates.
Eddie Rickenbackerâs combat record in World War I not only reflects his personal courage and skill as a pilot but also his significant contribution to the development of aerial combat tactics during the early years of military aviation.
References: 19 Pioneers of Aviation
- Innovators in Early Flight | National Air and Space Museum
- 6 Little-Known Pioneers of Aviation | HISTORY
- Orville Wright â Death, Wright Brothers & Life (biography.com)
- Wilbur Wright â Birthplace, Orville & Death (biography.com)
- Wright Brothers: First Flight, Plane & Kitty Hawk â HISTORY
- Paul Cornu | Helicopter inventor, Aviation pioneer | Britannica
- Paul Cornu | Encyclopedia.com
- Glenn Hammond Curtiss | Aviation Pioneer, Inventor, Engineer | Britannica
- Glenn Hammond Curtiss | National Aviation Hall of Fame
- Faster, Higher, Farther (wright-brothers.org)
- Alberto Santos-Dumont, Brazil (smithsonianeducation.org)
- Louis BlÊriot | Cross-Channel Flight, Aviation Pioneer, Monoplane Designer | Britannica
- The Engineer â Late great engineers: Louis BlÊriot â aviation pioneer (2)
- Harriet Quimby | First female pilot, aviation pioneer, film producer | Britannica
- NOVA | A Daring Flight | Queen of the Channel Crossing | PBS
- Eugene Ely and the Birth of Naval AviationâJanuary 18, 1911 | National Air and Space Museum (si.edu)
- The Short, Eventful Life of Eugene B. Ely | Proceedings â January 1981 Vol. 107/1/935 (usni.org)
- Captain Sir Geoffrey De Havilland | De Havilland â The Man and the Company | Archive Exhibitions | Research | RAF Museum
- Geoffrey de Havilland | Biography, Aircraft, & Facts | Britannica
- Capt. Edward V. Rickenbacker > National Museum of the United States Air Forceâĸ > Display (af.mil)
- Capt Edward Vernon Rickenbacker > Air Force History and Museums > Fact Sheets (af.mil)
- Eddie Rickenbacker Collection â Auburn University Special Collections and Archives
- Brig. Gen. William âBillyâ Mitchell > National Museum of the United States Air Forceâĸ > Display (af.mil)
- Billy Mitchell â Stormy Petrel of the Air (defense.gov)
- Bessie Coleman | National Womenâs History Museum (womenshistory.org)
- Bessie Coleman | National Air and Space Museum
- Charles Lindbergh | Flight, Biography, & Accomplishments | Britannica
- Charles Lindbergh Timeline | Minnesota Historical Society (mnhs.org)
- Charles Lindbergh (history.com)
- Amelia Earhart â The Official Licensing Website of Amelia Earhart
- Amelia Earhart | Biography, Childhood, Disappearance, & Facts | Britannica
- Amelia Earhart: Biography, Pilot, Disappearance
- The Little Princeâs Last Flight: The Story of Antoine de Saint-ExupÊry | The National WWII Museum | New Orleans (nationalww2museum.org)
- Antoine de Saint-ExupÊry â Quotes, The Little Prince & Books (biography.com)
- Igor Sikorsky | Lemelson (mit.edu)
- Case Files: Igor Sikorsky | The Franklin Institute
- Howard Hughes | Biography & Facts | Britannica
- Howard Hughes â Movie, Death & Children (biography.com)
- StoneElmerApr2010.pdf (uscg.mil)
- Elmer F. Stone (earlyaviators.com)
- Jean Batten | NZHistory, New Zealand history online
- Jean Batten | Pioneer, Record-Breaking, Airwoman | Britannica
