航空史, or the history of aviation, traces the development of flight from early human attempts to modern air travel. It began with the invention of lighter-than-air crafts like hot air balloons in the 18th century, leading to significant advancements in aerodynamics and engineering. The invention of the powered airplane by the Wright brothers in 1903 marked a pivotal moment in aviation history. Over the decades, aviation technology evolved rapidly, leading to the creation of commercial airlines and military aircraft, transforming global transportation and warfare.