Robert Esnault-Pelterie, 1881-1957
11. Esnault-Pelterie Traverse Le Lac Dua Trou Salé
Esnault-Pelterie followed a visionary path designing monoplanes with many features which would later become standard on modern planes. Esnault-Pelterie built engines as well. In 1904, he began glider research at Calais testing gliders based on the Wright's designs. He also invented the first aileron. He was badly injured flying this R.E.P. No. 1 monoplane in 1908. Thereafter, he had others test his designs for him.