CHAPTER XII – Flying Machines Construction And Operation

Chapter XII of “Flying Machines: Construction and Operation” demystifies the process of operating flying machines, emphasizing the practical aspects of flight rather than the quest for record altitudes. It informs readers that contrary to popular belief, flying machines do not need to be operated at extreme heights. Experienced aviators like Farman, Bleriot, and Wright, among others, frequently fly within a safe altitude range—between 500 to 1,500 feet, with the record at about 4,165 feet, held by Paulhan.

A key rule enforced by pioneers like Wright and Curtiss instructs aviators never to exceed 30 feet in height or drop below 6 feet during flights to ensure safety due to the thinner air at higher altitudes which reduces sustentation. The chapter proceeds to guide beginners on making their first flight, emphasizing the importance of understanding the machine’s control mechanisms. It suggests that initial flights be done from flat, obstruction-free grounds with the aid of three assistants to ensure a smooth launch and landing.

The authors advise novices to aim for modesty in their flights, underscoring that a short, successful flight is more valuable than ambitious attempts fraught with mishaps. They advocate for a cautious approach, staying around 25 to 30 feet above the ground to build confidence and ensure safety.

Learning to preserve equilibrium is highlighted as an essential skill, drawing parallels with bicycling techniques to help readers understand how to maintain balance in the air, thus preventing falls by adjusting the machine’s tilt in response to shifts in the center of gravity or by manipulating the stabilizing planes.

Through practical advice and comparisons to familiar experiences, the chapter offers a comprehensive guide to novice aviators on how to safely and confidently undertake and navigate their initial flights, emphasizing cautious altitude management, the significance of understanding control mechanisms, and the importance of balance in flight operations.