Flying is one of the earliest adventures imagined by man. At first, it was all theoretical with only publications suggesting the probability of such an action. Earlier on people just assumed that machines with bird-like wings would of course aid in flying.
This could not be objected since there was sufficient prove from the flying animals. After experimenting, however, it was found difficult to even lift the human weight. Hence different alternatives had to be exploited to overcome this setback. A number of people contributed to the making of what the flying industry is today.
Leonardo Da Vinci
Leonardo da Vinci is among the earliest people to venture into flying. He was only conceptual and rational. There was nothing scientific about his drawings. He didn’t even attempt to construct the designs. This was as early as the 15th century.
Tito Livio Burattini
In the 17th century, Tito Livio Burattini, an Italian, built what came to be termed as the most sophisticated aircraft prior to the 19th century. Tito developed a model aircraft that had four glider wings that were fixed. It 
is believed that Burattini’s aircraft airlifted a cat although the man himself never rode in it.
Sir George Cayley
In the 19th century, Sir George Cayley made what could be described as the first major discovery to the airplane. His works included research on the principles of flying even among birds. He defined the major principles of flying, including drag, weight, lift, and thrust. He even developed the design used in modern airplanes. This included the inclined fixed wing and the moveable tail with a fin.
The Wright Brothers
The Wright brothers are probably the most famous when it comes to contributions to the airplane. They built and flew the first airplane in the year 1903. Then they worked on improving their flaws including crash landing. Two years later they developed what could be termed as the first commercial flight.
In modern flying, two companies that have revolutionized the industry can be penned down in the records of remarkable contributors. Boeing, through William E. Boeing, has been consistent in the manufacture and innovation of aircraft since 1916. Airbus, a conglomerate, has also been a key player in the industry since 1970.
