From feathers to high-tech flying machines.

The dream of flying is as old as humanity itself. Countless ancient legends and myths, paintings and other works of art portray humans flying like birds or being carried by birds.

Feathers as a natural construction

Birds are identified by their feathers, with each type and species having its own distinct plumage. Feathers are protection as well as adornment and provide essential assistance when flying or swimming. From early on, aviation pioneers have attempted to mimic the flight of birds with bird wings serving as templates and feathers being used as a welcome construction material.

• Download the full content of the latest CIAM Flyer (5-2020) - Flying like a bird in PDF format!
• Current and past issues of the CIAM Flyer can also be downloaded on the CIAM Flyer page.