AVIATION

17 Fascinating Facts About the Wright Brothers

They may be famous for their aviation feats, but the brothers also made a foray into the bicycle business.

Here Are Two Very Good Reasons Not to Sleep During Your Plane's Take-Off and Landing

Save your nap for the cruising portion of your flight.

Why Do Airplanes Feel Like They’re Moving So Slowly?

You know planes cover hundreds of miles per hour. So why doesn't it look like they do?

'Hello? I'd like to talk to you about your home warranty.'

The Best Time to Use the Bathroom On an Airplane, According to a Flight Attendant

The correct answer is “never,” but if you have to, you’d better time it right.

How Are Speed Limits Enforced by Aircraft?

Speeders on targeted stretches of road are monitored from the ground and from the sky.

Stick to listening to your pre-downloaded podcasts.

Why Can’t I Use My Cell Phone on an Airplane?

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) bars the use of all transmitting devices in the off chance that transmissions could interfere with a plane’s navigation and communications equipment and cause system malfunctions.

Don’t forget to empty your water bottle before you get to the airport security line.

The Real Reason You Can’t Bring Water Bottles Through Airport Security

A CIA official explains the 3-1-1 rule and the lasting influence of Operation Overt.

And so Krypton sent their only son, Kal-El...

Failure to Launch: Why Winston Churchill's ‘Sarcophagus-Like’ Airplane Pod Never Took Off

The UK’s Prime Minister was in poor health but still needed to fly. The solution? Stuff him in a big egg.

“The Paper Airplane Guy” Teaches You How to Fold a Record-Breaking Flying Machine

John Collins's paper airplanes can spin, flap like birds, and make 360-degree turns.

What’s the Safest Seat on an Airplane?

The safest seat on a plane is also probably your least favorite one.

Why Is It Called a ‘Cockpit’?

The flight deck has long been known by a peculiar term—one that probably has to do with roosters.

2023 American Women Quarter featuring pilot Bessie Coleman.

New Quarters Highlight Pioneering Aviator Bessie Coleman

The first coin in the U.S. Mint's 2023 American Women Quarters Program features Bessie Coleman, the pilot who broke barriers a century ago.

Flight delayed or canceled? Here's what to do.

12 Things To Do When Your Flight's Canceled or Delayed

The next time you're stranded at an airport because of a flight delay or cancellation, follow these expert tips—and have a better chance at maintaining your sanity.

There Are Only 25 Blimps Left on Earth—Here’s Why

There are 25 blimps left in existence as of 2022, and only half of them are in use.

Amelia Earhart is getting some overdue recognition.

A Monumental Moment: A Long-Awaited Statue of Amelia Earhart Will Be Unveiled at the U.S. Capitol This Month

The pioneering aviator who died under mysterious circumstances in 1937 will soon take a place of prominence in the National Statuary Hall Collection.

A flight attendant pouring a passenger champagne on a Pan Am flight.

Pan Am Video Highlights the Luxurious Early Days of Commercial Flight

From spacious lounge areas to high-end meals, the average air traveler could expect a luxurious experience while flying Pan American in the 1950s.

Amelia Earhart was a major influence on modern fashion.

Sky Fashion: Amelia Earhart's Clothing Line

Amelia Earhart was a pioneer in the air, but she also had a knack for progressive women's clothing in a line she designed.

The Best Airlines in the U.S. and the World

Whether you're traveling internationally or domestically, these are the best airlines to fly with in 2021.

Mattel Just Released A New Fighter-Pilot Barbie Inspired By Top Gun: Maverick

Mattel just released a special-edition "Top Gun: Maverick" Barbie doll, inspired by the long-awaited sequel.

Astronaut Alan Shepard wears his pressure suit for the Mercury-Redstone 3 (MR-3) flight, the first American crewed spaceflight.

13 Facts about Astronaut Alan Shepard, the First American in Space

Fifty years ago, Alan Shepard became the first astronaut to hit a golf ball on the moon. Read on for more facts about trailblazing career at NASA.

United's male-only flights lasted from 1953 to 1970. In addition to women, children were also banned from boarding.

Sexism at 40,000 Feet: When United Banned Women From Boarding Their Men-Only 'Executive' Flights

From 1953 to 1970, United Airlines offered a daily flight out of New York that catered exclusively to male passengers. The National Organization for Women (NOW) was having none of it.

This metaphor doesn't mean what you think it means.

Where Does the Term 'Pushing the Envelope' Come From?

Anyone exceeding established boundaries of business, art, or safety is said to be 'pushing the envelope.' Why?

Col. Benjamin O. Davis (left), commanding officer of the 332nd Fighter Group, and Edward C. Gleed, group operations officer, stand in front of a plane in Ramitelli, Italy, in March 1945.

10 Inspiring Facts About the Tuskegee Airmen

The first African American pilots to serve in the United States military, the Tuskegee Airmen helped the Allies win World War II and put the U.S. armed forces on the road to integration.

Amelia Earhart and aircraft in LEGO form.

Amelia Earhart Is Getting the LEGO Treatment

In honor of International Women’s Day, Amelia Earhart and her bright red airplane are now available in LEGO form.