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Clément Ader: Quick Facts

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Facts

Born February 4, 1841 • France
Died March 5, 1926 (aged 85) • Toulouse • France

Photos

Clément Ader.
Drawing of Clément Ader's Avion III, which was tested on Oct. 12 and 14, 1897.
Drawing of Clément Ader's Avion III, built in 1897.
Ader ÉoleFrench aeronautical pioneer Clément Ader designed, built, and “flew” the Éole. On Oct. 9, 1890, Ader became the first pilot to achieve a powered takeoff from level ground, though his flight lasted only a few seconds and barely cleared the ground.
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