Early aviators achieved remarkable feats over the New Forest

In the early 1900s, Bournemouth resident William McArdle, known as “Motor Mac,” was key in advancing local aviation. On May 10, 1910, John Armstrong Drexel achieved the first powered flight in the New Forest, ascending to 20 feet before landing due to a snapped oil pipe. Following him, McArdle soared to 50 feet, delighting the crowd. The New Forest Aviation School became notable during World War I as a training camp for the Royal Flying Corps. Although it closed in 1919, the site continued to be used for aviation-related activities until 1950.

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