After gaining experience designing, building, and flying aircraft as a member of the AEA, Curtiss began building airplanes in Hammondsport, New York. As a designer and builder, he emerged as the nationâs leading producer of aircraft. Curtiss also discovered that in addition to selling airplanes to the government and individuals, he could make money by sending a team of aviators and aircraft on the road to air meets and exhibitions.
As a pilot, Glenn Curtiss won the worldâs first air race, receiving the Gordon Bennett Trophy at Reims, France, on 29 August 1909. He flew at an average speed of 46.5 mph. He went on to win many awards in speed and distance competitions before the start of World War I in 1914.
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