To fly! For centuries, it was the dream of humanity. The "Air Age" marked its centennial year in 2003. This milestone became an occasion to look back on the rapid advancement of aviation technology which continues to shape modern aircraft in profound and enduring ways-from Orville Wright steering his Flyer across a 120-foot course at Kitty Hawk to the modern-day commercial jet airliners. In the military, the primitive wood and fabric flying machines of World War I have given way to the latest warplanes fitted with stealth technology, smart weapons, and instantaneous global communications. In all its remarkable detail, the complete story of aviation unfolds in this spectacular book. This revised edition offers a feast for the eyes in its wealth of full-color photographs and archival illustrations from museums around the world..