The Blériot XI, built in 1909, was the result of several years of experiments, encouraged further by the public demonstration of the Wright Flyer. [Image courtesy of Patrick Chovanec]
Key Takeaways:
The article details an MSFS2020 reenactment of Louis Blériot's historic 1909 English Channel crossing in his challenging, instrument-free Blériot XI aircraft.
Flying the Blériot XI required mastering its rudimentary controls, such as wing warping for roll, rudder-focused turning, and constant right rudder input to counteract engine torque, all while lacking essential instruments like an airspeed indicator, altimeter, or fuel gauge.
The simulation highlighted the difficulty of early aviation, including basic navigation via visual cues and demanding landings, underscoring the pioneering skill and courage required for Blériot's original 36-minute flight that marked the first aerial crossing of the English Channel.
For this session in Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 (MSFS2020), I’m reenacting French aviator Louis Blériot’s historic 1909 crossing of the English Channel.
Louis Blériot [Credit: Smithsonian Institution]
Louis Blériot was a French engineer who invented the first practical headlight for automobiles. After building a successful headlight business, he turned his attention to the experimental field of aviation.
CREATE A FREE ACCOUNT
Sign up to keep reading
Create a free account to continue. Already a member? Sign in below.
Patrick Chovanec works as an economist in New York City, and has taught as a professor at China's Tsinghua University and at Columbia University. He is a private pilot, and author of the recently released book ""Cleared for the Option: A Year Learning to Fly.""
