Wiley Post

Wiley Post (November 22, 1898 – August 15, 1935) was a pioneering American aviator, famous for being the first pilot to fly solo around the world. Born in Grand Saline, Texas, Post's early life was marked by a keen interest in aviation, leading him to become one of the most celebrated figures in the history of flight.

Early Life

Wiley Post was born to a cotton farmer's family in Texas. Despite the financial hardships of his family, Post's fascination with aviation began at an early age. After serving in the United States Army during World War I, where he was an aircraft mechanic, Post returned to the United States with a deeper interest in aviation.

Aviation Career

Post's aviation career began in earnest when he started working as a parachutist for a flying circus. He saved money to buy his first airplane, a biplane, which he used to perform stunts. His career took a significant turn when he lost his left eye in an oil rig accident, which led to him wearing his iconic eye patch. The settlement from the accident allowed him to purchase a Lockheed Vega, which he named the Winnie Mae.

In 1931, Post and his navigator, Harold Gatty, made headlines by flying around the world in 8 days, 15 hours, and 51 minutes in the Winnie Mae. This achievement made Post a global celebrity. However, not content with flying with a navigator, Post decided to attempt the feat solo. In 1933, he succeeded, completing the journey in 7 days, 18 hours, and 49 minutes, setting a new record for the fastest flight around the world.

Innovations in Aviation

Beyond his record-setting flights, Post contributed significantly to the field of aviation through his innovations. He is credited with developing the first pressure suit, which allowed him to fly at altitudes above 50,000 feet, a feat that was not possible at the time due to the risk of hypoxia. This invention paved the way for high-altitude flight and had implications for both aviation and space exploration.

Death and Legacy

Wiley Post's life was tragically cut short when he and American humorist Will Rogers died in a plane crash near Point Barrow, Alaska, on August 15, 1935. Despite his premature death, Post's legacy in aviation continues. He is remembered for his pioneering spirit, his contributions to the development of pressure suits, and his record-setting solo flight around the world.

See Also

• History of aviation
• Lockheed Vega
• Solo flight around the world