This is a list of firsts in aviation. For a comprehensive list of women's records, see Women in aviation.

First person to fly

The first flight (including gliding) by a person is unknown. A number have been suggested: None of these historical accounts are adequately supported by corroborating evidence nor have any been widely accepted. The first confirmed human flight was accomplished by Jean-François Pilâtre de Rozier in a tethered Montgolfier balloon in 1783.

Lighter than air (aerostats)

Heavier than air (aerodynes)

Pioneer era 1853–1914

Practical flight 1914–1938

Jet age, 1939–present

Citations

Sources