In 1901, Glenn Hammond Curtiss established his own motorcycle manufacturing company and soon became known throughout the industry for his mechanical innovations. By 1906 he owned a chain of bicycle and motorcycle shops. It was his eminently successful motorcycle engines which led him into aviation through contracts for dirigible engines. In collaboration with Alexander Graham Bell and others interested in flight, Curtiss was instrumental in forming the Aerial Experiment Association at Hammondsport, producing the group's first aeroplane in March 1908. Without benefit of previous flight experience, Curtiss flew the Association's second aircraft a distance of over one thousand feet on May 22, 1908. Over the next several years his aircraft designs and successful advanced performance engines led Curtiss to establish many speed and distance records in the U.S. and Europe, proving the practicability of the aeroplane. In 1911 he established his flying school at North Island on San Diego Bay, training the pioneer Army and Navy pilots. Among his historic achievements in San Diego was the development of the first practical amphibious aircraft. Thus was the beginning of U.S. naval aviation. The advent of the 1914-1918 War deluged the Curtiss Airplane and Motor Company with orders from Europe and the United States for his flying boats. His famed JN-4 Jenny became the primary training plane in the U.S. for years to come. It was in his Curtiss NC-4 that the Navy made its historic first trans-Atlantic flight in 1919. Curtiss remained active in flying and in the management of his company until his death.
Inducted in 1965.
Portrait Location: Hall of Fame Hallway

Induction Video