AERO CLUB LICENCE

How the first aviators got their wings Italy, 1918

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It wasn't long after the Wright brothers achieved their first powered flight in 1903 that others wanted to take to the sky as well and, like driving, training and licensing came into force. While comprehensive administrative apparatus took many years to come into being, aero clubs stepped in to fill the gap. It's believed that the first aero club, an organisation for hobbyists and enthusiasts, was started in 1898 with the Aero Club de France. This obviously predates the first powered aircraft, but they were also interested in the use of balloons and generally promoting innovation in aerial travel.