Flying Machines: 1916

The aircraft of World War I are primitive machines, built of wood and canvas. First used for reconnaissance, soon fighters are trying to shoot each other down in mid-air in spectacular dogfights.

For the first time in war, aircraft support naval and military action. Bi-planes and tri-planes are flown by pilots with little training: von Richthofen (also known as the 'Red Baron') has only 24 hours of flying training before he goes into combat. Legends develop around flying aces such as Albert Ball and their aerial dogfights. Bombers soon take over bombing raids, which were begun by zeppelins.
Reuters: news footage with sound effects added later.

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