Early Ballooning

Humanity’s dream to fly was realized in 18th century France when the Montgolfier Brothers successfully flew the world’s first hot air balloons. Gas ballooning followed, and led to many achievements, such as crossing the English Channel by air and, later, the first use of aerial photography. Technology advanced, and so did the popularity of balloons. Showmen – and women -- entertained the masses and brought countries around the world into the age of human aviation.