Wright Flyer III

Wright Flyer III is a historic airplane preserved inside the aviation center at Carillon Historical Park in Dayton, Ohio, and recognized as the first practical powered aircraft capable of full pilot control. The machine features a wooden frame built from spruce, fabric-covered wings arranged in a biplane layout, and twin pusher propellers driven by a four-cylinder engine mounted behind the pilot position.

The Wright brothers built this airplane in 1905 after years of experimenting with earlier versions, improving the engine and control system to achieve reliable flight. Wilbur Wright flew it that October for more than half an hour in a single flight, marking the moment powered aviation became a practical reality rather than a brief experiment.

Locals speak of this airplane as the first machine that could truly go where the pilot wanted, rather than simply gliding. The display shows how two bicycle makers from Ohio taught the world that controlled, powered flight was possible, using lightweight materials and careful observation.

The building housing the airplane is open daily and allows close viewing from multiple angles, with panels explaining how the controls and engine worked. A visit works well as part of a walk through the park, which also includes other exhibits related to the region and early technology.

This airplane holds the only designation as a National Historic Landmark among all aircraft in the country. The recognition came because it proved for the first time that people could travel through the air for extended distances without needing to land immediately after takeoff.

Location: Dayton

GPS coordinates: 39.72778,-84.20194

Latest update: December 13, 2025 18:25