That idea helped launch one of the most important early uses of aviation in the United States.
The U.S. Postal Service, backed by Congress, began expanding experimental airmail routes. Many of the pilots flying those early missions had already been pushing the limits of flight in the 1910s — and would soon bring that experience into military service.
“And in the nation’s capital, U.S. mail heads for its first trip by air. President (Woodrow) Wilson is on hand and delivers a letter for the airplane,” a newsreel narrator said at the time.
Flying conditions were primitive. Pilots often navigated by following railroad tracks. There were no modern instruments, and in poor weather, they were essentially flying blind.
It was also dangerous work. Between 1919 and 1927, 34 pilots were killed.
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