Twelve seconds and 120 feet later, the brothers had achieved controlled flight. On December 17, 1903, after years of arduous research, meticulous designs, and dangerous trials, Wilbur and Orville launched the Wright Flyer.

This Wright Brothers Day, we honor Wilbur and Orville’s quintessentially American spirit of innovation and ingenuity, and we celebrate their enduring legacy as pioneers who took our Nation to new heights. Wilbur and Orville Wright achieved one of the most transformative technological advancements in the history of humankind: the first-ever sustained, controlled, and powered flight. One hundred twenty years ago on the sand dunes of Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, two brothers forever changed the course of history. Get Involved Show submenu for “Get Involved””.The White House Show submenu for “The White House””.Office of the United States Trade Representative.Office of Science and Technology Policy.Executive Offices Show submenu for “Executive Offices””.Administration Show submenu for “Administration””.