“A sudden dart when a little over a hundred feet from the end of the track, or a little over 120 feet from the point at which it rose into the air, ended the flight.”
- Wilbur Wright: April 16, 1867 – May 30, 1912
- Orville Wright: August 19, 1871 – January 30, 1948
- American
- Aviation Pioneers, Inventors, Engineers, First to Achieve Powered, Controlled Flight
table of contents
Quote
“A sudden dart when a little over a hundred feet from the end of the track, or a little over 120 feet from the point at which it rose into the air, ended the flight.”
Explanation
This quote describes the abrupt conclusion of one of the Wright brothers’ earliest flight attempts, likely referring to one of the first powered flights at Kitty Hawk in December 1903. The phrase “a sudden dart” indicates an unexpected loss of control—perhaps due to wind, structural instability, or pilot inexperience. Despite the brevity of the flight, the reference to “120 feet” from takeoff marks it as a measurable success, one that proved the possibility of powered, controlled flight.
Rather than focusing on triumph, this statement emphasizes the fragility and experimental nature of the moment. The Wright brothers were methodical and humble in their approach, documenting failures with the same precision as successes. The quote demonstrates their understanding that every short flight—even one that ends abruptly—provided crucial data and validation. In the context of 1903, flying 120 feet under power was a monumental leap, despite the sudden end.
This moment reflects a broader truth: pioneering work often progresses in fragile increments. Whether building rockets, launching startups, or writing groundbreaking theories, early efforts may falter just as quickly as they rise. But by measuring, learning, and persevering through these setbacks—as the Wrights did—the foundation is laid for greater stability and success. Even short-lived breakthroughs carry the seeds of transformation.
Would you like to share your impressions or related stories about this quote in the comments section?
