Aeroplane Experiments at the Crystal Palace

Extract

It has often been supposed that one of the greatest difficulties to be overcome before successful aërial navigation can be achieved is the practical balance of the apparatus in mid-air. Whether or not this will really prove a stumbling-block it is impossible, with our present experience, to state with certainty. Several inventors, it is true, have had considerable difficulties in the initial starting of their machines, which have had a way of toppling over as soon as they have been launched into the air. It seems just possible, however, that if the machine could be properly trimmed before starting, all such difficulties might be overcome. We know that small models, if dropped from the hand or lightly thrown forward, will easily upset, if not properly balanced, but which, if the weights be carefully adjusted beforehand, will fly steadily enough on their downward course.