American Aviation Historical Society

1839

John Wise, an American, introduces the balloon ripping-panel, a glued section that the pilot can pull open for quick emptying of the balloon after landing. This prevents the balloon from being dragged along the ground.

1911

Second Army Wright plane accepted by Signal Corps

1913

In a floatplane, Bob Fowler makes the first flight with a passenger in Central America (and the first flight in Panama) when he flies with film cameraman Raymond Duhem from the Atlantic to the Pacific, flying 40 miles across the Panama isthmus in 57 minutes. En route, Duhem makes the first aerial film of Central America.

1920

Law violation - Apr 27, 1920 - Issued to Ormer Locklear is cited for "reckless aerial driving" over Los Angeles, thus becoming the first person in the U.S. to be fined for a law violation while piloting an a/c . He was fined $25.00.