MIAA celebrates 100 years of aviation

The Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) is celebrating today the global celebration of the 100th year of aviation, highlighted by a scale model of the Wright brothers’ Flyer at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 2.

On Dec. 17, 1903, the world’s first craft capable of sustained and controlled maneuverable flight took to the skies at Kitty Hawk in North Carolina. The plane was piloted by Wilbur and Orville Wright.

The Wright brothers’ Flyer was a significant improvement over previous attempts at building a craft for sustained flight. It had a stronger structure, a larger engine with new "bent-end" propellers and greater maneuverability,

The flight on Dec. 17, 1903 marked the genesis of aviation eventually paving the way for safer air travel and speedy communication through international airmail service.

Taking the first step to commemorate the First Centennial of the First Flight, senior students of PATS College of Aeronautics, under the guidance of Professors Lorenzo Naval Jr. and Roberto Renigen, in consultation and coordination with Aeronautical Engineer Crisologo Zenarosa and Takeshi Ishikawa of Japan Airlines, and with the support of airport officials, have built a 1:2 scale model of the original aircraft.

"Taking aim at giving inspiration to many, the replica represents the fulfillment of a dream through persistence. This (replica) is dedicated to the Filipino men and women in aviation," said MIAA General Manager Edgardo Manda. — Sandy Araneta