In 1908, Wilbur Wright flew the first public exhibitions of a Wright Flyer in France. It wasn't long before aviation meets began thrilling crowds of spectators with races; altitude records; climbing and diving; and dramatic turns. Developing aerobatic maneuvers helped the military improve fighter tactics and aircraft technology.

Today, aerobatic flight remains an exhilarating type of flying in which a pilot performs precision maneuvers. Civilian pilots fly aerobatics for fun, competition, or air show performance. Military pilots use aerobatic flight for combat tactics. Millions of spectators watch aerobatic demonstrations each year at air shows. Aircraft used for aerobatics range from barnstormer-style biplanes to the latest military fighter jets.

Location in Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA
On the main floor of the Udvar-Hazy Center to the right after entering the main display room from the museum entrance.
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Related Topics: Aviation Aircraft General aviation Sports aviation Military aviation Air Racing Speed
In this Exhibit Pitts Special S-1C Object Monocoupe 110 Special Object Loudenslager Laser 200 Object Grumman G-22 Gulfhawk II Object Bücker Bü-133C Jungmeister Object Search the Collection
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