Global aviation has been one of the most important milestones in human development, connecting continents, cultures and economies. The history of aviation begins at the end of the 19th century, when the first experiments with airplanes were carried out. In 1903, the Wright brothers, Orville and Wilbur, made the first successful flight at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. This success sparked great interest in aviation technology, which then developed rapidly. In 1914, the first commercial flight was made between St. Petersburg and Tampa, Florida, using seaplanes. This moment marked the beginning of a new era in air transportation, giving humans the ability to travel long distances more quickly. Furthermore, in 1927, Charles Lindbergh became famous after making the first non-stop solo flight from New York to Paris, paving the way for the development of long-distance aviation. World Wars I and II provided a significant boost to the aviation industry. Innovations in fighter aircraft technology accelerated advances in civil aircraft design and performance. After the war, in the 1950s, commercial jets began to be introduced, with the Boeing 707 being the pioneer. It drastically changes the way people travel, offering unmatched comfort and speed. The 1970s and 1980s saw a revolution in global aviation with increased accessibility. Ticket costs fell and more people could travel. International airports began to expand to meet increasing demand, resulting in a complex global aviation network. Additionally, international treaties such as the Chicago Convention (1944) helped establish the legal framework for global civil aviation. Aviation also contributes to economic globalization. The last five decades have seen the growth of the tourism industry, with aviation allowing more people to explore international destinations. Airlines are seeking to improve services by introducing business class and premium services, providing a better experience for passengers. However, global crises such as the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks and the COVID-19 pandemic have exposed the vulnerability of the aviation industry. The incident caused a drastic drop in passenger numbers and forced airlines to adapt to the new situation, including implementing strict security measures and health protocols. As technology advances, the aviation industry is now heading towards a sustainable future. Innovations in alternative fuels and electric aircraft are a key focus for reducing aviation’s carbon footprint. In addition, vertical flight and drone concepts for goods delivery are starting to be developed, showing the potential for higher operational efficiency. Meanwhile, digitalization trends are also creating significant changes in the way we plan travel. The mobile app and online platform enable passengers to make reservations easily, receive real-time updates and manage their travel plans efficiently. Global aviation has come a long way and continues to develop rapidly. With increasing innovation and adaptation to new challenges, the future of aviation promises more opportunities for better global connectivity. In this context, understanding aviation history also helps us to appreciate the progress that has been made and the challenges that lie ahead.