April 25

John Moisant (1868–1910) was an American aviation pioneer and engineer best known for his daring flights in the early days of powered flight. He designed and built his own airplanes and became the first American pilot to fly across the English Channel in 1910. Moisant founded the Moisant International Aviators, organizing aerial exhibitions that captivated audiences in Europe and the United States. His barnstorming performances helped popularize aviation as both spectacle and transportation. Moisant's achievements and tragic death in a demonstration crash highlighted the risks and possibilities of early flight.