German aviation history began in the early 20th century, marked by pioneers like Otto Lilienthal, who is known for his glider flights in the 1890s. The country made significant advancements during World War I, producing notable aircraft such as the Fokker Dr.I and Albatros D.V. In the interwar period, Germany focused on commercial aviation, leading to the establishment of Lufthansa in 1926. The rise of the Heinkel and Messerschmitt companies contributed to innovations in aircraft design, culminating in the development of the Messerschmitt Bf 109 during World War II, which became one of the most iconic fighter planes of the era.