The Wright Brothers' First Powered Flight
December 17, 1903: The Day That Changed the World
This is the fourth and final article in our series exploring the remarkable journey of Orville and Wilbur Wright. From their early years in Dayton to their glider experiments at Kitty Hawk, every step led to one historic moment: December 17, 1903.
The 1903 Wright Flyer
After years of research, testing, and refinement, the Wright Brothers built their powered aircraft: the 1903 Wright Flyer. This remarkable machine featured:
- A 12-horsepower engine designed and built by the Wrights and their mechanic Charlie Taylor
- A wingspan of 40 feet, 4 inches
- A weight of 605 pounds (without pilot)
- Wing warping for lateral control – their revolutionary innovation
- Spruce and ash construction covered with muslin fabric
December 17, 1903
The brothers had been waiting for the right conditions. On December 17th, they got them – along with steady 27 mph winds that would help with takeoff.
At 10:35 a.m., Orville took the controls. With Wilbur running alongside to steady the wing, the Flyer lifted off the wooden launching rail.
The first flight lasted 12 seconds and covered 120 feet.
It wasn't far. It wasn't long. But it was sustained, controlled, powered flight – something humanity had dreamed of for millennia.
Four Flights That Day
The brothers took turns, making four flights total:
- Orville – 12 seconds, 120 feet
- Wilbur – 12 seconds, 175 feet
- Orville – 15 seconds, 200 feet
- Wilbur – 59 seconds, 852 feet
The fourth flight proved the Flyer could sustain itself in the air. Then a gust of wind flipped the aircraft, damaging it beyond repair. But it didn't matter – they had done it.
The World Took Notice
The Wrights sent a telegram to their father: "Success four flights Thursday morning... inform Press home Christmas."
Within years, the Wright Brothers were famous worldwide. They continued to improve their designs, eventually selling aircraft to the U.S. Army and governments around the world.
Fly Where It All Began
Today, you can stand at the exact spot where the Wright Brothers made history. And with OBX Airplanes, you can take to the skies above that sacred ground.
When you fly with us, you're not just taking an air tour – you're participating in a tradition that began right here on December 17, 1903.
Experience flight at its birthplace. Book your tour today and see the Wright Brothers National Memorial from above.
OBX Airplanes – First Flight Airport, Manteo, NC – 252.473.2442