Since that time, aircraft planners have persevered to make their crafts go further, higher, faster, and to be controlled with greater ease.
In the first half of the 19th century, hot-air tethered balloons were perfected and were involved in significant action in some mid-century wars. Their most noteworthy contribution was in the American Civil War, where hot-air balloons worked as observation balloons during the Petersburg battle. Experiments using gliders built the groundwork for crafting heavier-than-air craft; by the early 20th century, leaps forward in engine technology made powered and controlled flight a reality for the first time. Since that time, aircraft planners have persevered to make their crafts go further, higher, faster, and to be controlled with greater ease. Just some required factors in constructing an airplane are thrust, balance, wings, landing gear and trim controls. The development of flight has continued to proceed through many centuries; advancements continue to be made today.