Last updated: February 11, 2025
Place
First Flights: December 17, 1903
NPS
On this cold and windy morning, the Wrights achieved the world’s first controlled flights. Here, they realized not only own dream – but also one of humanity’s oldest dreams – to fly!The boulder and numbered markers on the field in front of you mark the takeoff and landing spots of those four flights.
On the exhibit, a black and white photograph shows the first flight. The 1903 flyer is taking off from the launching rail with Orville on board as the pilot. Wilbur is on the right side of the flyer, close to the wing as it takes off. Tools and a small bench are seen in the foreground. The caption reads, "The first flight. Wilbur watches as Orville takes flight."
On the exhibit, a black and white photograph shows the first flight. The 1903 flyer is taking off from the launching rail with Orville on board as the pilot. Wilbur is on the right side of the flyer, close to the wing as it takes off. Tools and a small bench are seen in the foreground. The caption reads, "The first flight. Wilbur watches as Orville takes flight."