Jeremy Collins-White

Ever since the Wright brothers, the earthbound have dreamed of gaining personal access to the sky

From our US edition

A vehicle that lifts from your driveway, bypasses the gridlock below, and deposits you, serenely, wherever you choose? For most of the 20th century, it remained science fiction. Now, somewhat amazingly, the race to put a personal flying machine in private hands could be nearing completion. The history of this quest is longer and stranger than most realize. In the 1930s came Autogiro Company of America’s AC-35, an autogyro that could drive 25 mph and fly 75 mph. The ’40s saw the Fulton FA-2 Airphibian with detachable wings and tail. It was even approved by the Civil Aviation Authority, but production was halted due to financial issues.