#OnThisDay: Kolkata experiences India’s first flight

On this day in 1912, the Indian city of Kolkata experienced the subcontinent’s first flight with the Bristol Boxkite, flown by French pilot, Henri Jullerot.

Months after the establishment of the British & Colonial Aeroplane Company by Sir George White, his brother and his son in 1910, the factory was building the Bristol Biplane, later nicknamed the Boxkite.

Before the First World War, the public generally viewed aircraft as entertainment. Spectators flocked to airfields to witness daring pilots skilfully performing their stunts. Aviators won big prize money and inspired writers, designers, artists and early filmmakers.

However, air races and aerial photography quickly showed the potential uses of aircraft in war.

Air displays, races and trade shows also helped to build a market for aircraft in Britain and across the world.

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