On October 13, 1913, Luckey entered aviation history as the victor in the New York Times Aerial Derby that took place around Manhattan Island.
William S. Luckey is a less famous name in aviation, yet he was known to New Yorkers in the early part of the 20th century. On October 13, 1913, Luckey entered aviation history as the victor in the New York Times Aerial Derby that took place around Manhattan Island. Luckey completed the course of approximately six miles in only 52 minutes and 53 seconds. This surprise pilot was an uncommon figure in aviation because before his victory, he was a manufacturer of suitcases and trunks, and also a sufferer of rheumatism. About 50 years old when he won the derby, Luckey’s demise occurred only two years later when back was broken in a fall from his airplane.