Famous Planes and Their Impact on History
In little over one hundred years, aviation has revolutionized the world. From passenger flying and logistics to warfare, airplanes have changed the course of humanity. Today we will take a look at famous planes and their impact on history. There’ll be some you will definitely be familiar with and one or two surprises. Read on to find out more.
1. The Wright Flyer
If we are talking about famous planes and their impact on history, it makes sense to start at the beginning, literally!
The Wright Flyer is where it all began and is the great-granddad of every airplane ever built! It all began in 1903 when two brothers, Orville and Wilbur Wright, flew at Kittyhawk, North Carolina.
The first flight was a far cry from the future of aviation. The first-ever powered flight only spanned a paltry 32 meters! (Shorter than the wingspan of a Boeing 747!). However, the significance of this event would herald the start of greater things over the next century.
2. P-51 Mustang
Described as one of the most effective single-engine fighters of World War II, the P-51 Mustang changed the course of the war in the allies’ favor. Its long-range and fearsome maneuverability and firepower allowed bombers to be escorted deep into Europe.
This military plane was so effective that it was also deployed and used in the Korean war. So when you see a P-51, you are looking at a piece of history. Chuck Yeager, one of the greatest ever pilots, flew a P-51 in the early stages of his career before going on to greater things.
3. Bell UH-1
So technically not a ‘plane’; however, the Bell UH-1 or ‘Huey’ will be a familiar sight for anyone interested in military history. This helicopter was utilized extensively during the Vietnam war and was used in transportation, logistical and attack roles, with over 7000 being used in active service.
And it isn’t just a relic of the past. Such was the usefulness of this helicopter that it still sees active service to this day. It has been upgraded in several different variants. At Wings over Camarillo, you can see the Bell UH-1Y up close!
4. Spitfire
The Supermarine Spitfire is an iconic British warbird that first came to prominence defending the shores of England against the German Luftwaffe in World War II. This is one of the most famous planes that impacted military history – had they failed in their mission, Britain would have been invaded by the Nazis. As the quote from Winston Churchill goes:
The Spitfire has some pretty unique characteristics.
Its elliptical wing allowed it to perform tighter turns and perform more efficiently at high altitudes. Closer to the ground, you’ll hear a spitfire before you see it. The throaty roar of its 1000 horsepower Merlin engine is really distinctive.
Seeing a Spitfire is truly a privilege. However, it is thought that throughout the entire world, there are only 60 that are airworthy.
Being able to touch a piece of history is a special experience.
5. Mig-17
Speaking of Korea, one of the most famous planes of the time was the Mig-17. This aircraft was designed to intercept and shoot down high-level bombers and was utilized extensively by communist forces to counter the threat they foresaw from the US.
Interestingly the Mig-17 was the first Soviet fighter to be fitted with afterburners, allowing the pilot to inject a speed boost to escape danger.
When the MIG-17 flies past, you won’t be able to ignore it. We advise a good set of earplugs. It is shockingly loud and fast!
6. The Spruce Goose
The ‘Spruce Goose’ (the name affectionately given to the H-4 Hercules) was the brainchild of eccentric millionaire Howard Hughes. At one stage, it was the biggest airplane ever created.
The airplane was designed to ferry troops across the Atlantic, and it was designed to be operated on water. The ‘Spruce Goose’ was so named as its frame was constructed from wood, which was more readily available than other metals due to wartime restrictions.
The saddest thing is that the airplane only ever flew once on November 2nd, 1947! Before being grounded forever.
7. Douglas DC3
The Douglas DC3 ‘Dakota’ brought to the fore how useful aviation could be. Before its invention, air travel was a tedious affair of airplane changes, refueling stops and was also pretty dangerous.
The DC3 changed all of that and was the grandfather of modern commercial aviation that we see today. Passengers could travel in relative comfort, and it created the ability for people to fly coast to coast in the minimum amount of time.
8. Bell X-1
Remember when we mentioned Chuck Yeager? His story didn’t end with the P-51 Mustang. There was a point in history when Chuck went faster than any man in history.
How fast?
Faster than the speed of sound. Looking more like a 50. Cal bullet than an airplane, on October 14th, 1947, Chuch Yeager ‘lit the candle’ and propelled aviation (and space travel) into a new era!
9. RV-3
Perhaps not quite as glamorous as the X-1, but still influential on our list of famous planes, the Vans RV-3 allowed your everyday person to become an aviator. The beauty of the RV-3 was that it could be built in any home garage. In addition, it was fast, comfortable, and highly maneuverable.
The aircraft has since been developed further, with higher power aerobatic versions such as the Vans RV-4, RV-6, and RV-7. They are nimble, agile, and great fun to watch. Wings over Camarillo feature these aircraft regularly on their schedule.
Final Thought
There are many famous planes that have impacted history. Practically every airplane you see at airshows has some significant history. Some of them are really rare. The best thing about airshows is that they feature a huge variety of performers. Why not check what Wings Over Camarillo offers and see if you can experience your own piece of aviation history?
Ready to Soar with Us?
