Air Quote by Otto Lilienthal
“One can get a proper insight into the practice of flying only by actual flying experiments. . . . The manner in which we have to meet the irregularities of the wind, when soaring in the air, can only be learnt by being in the air itself. . . . The only way which leads us to a quick development in human flight is a systematic and energetic practice in actual flying experiments.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Birdflight as Nature and Science by Otto Lilienthal, 1890
Practical experience is essential to mastering flight; theory alone cannot teach handling wind irregularities.
In simple terms: Flying must be learned by actually flying.
Key Takeaway
Practice in the air to improve flight skills.
Themes
experience
learning
flight
Mood
determined
inquisitive
Type
instructional
practical
When to use this quote
- pilot training
- aircraft design
- wind tunnel testing
- aviation education
Key Concepts
Aerodynamics
experiential learning
Questions to Reflect On
- How can simulations replace real flight?
- What risks arise without practical testing?
A Different Perspective
Theory alone cannot substitute for hands‑on experience.
![“Just between you and me, shouldn’t the World Bank be encouraging MORE migration of the dirty industries to the LDCs [Less Developed Countries]?... I think the economic logic behind dumping a load of toxic waste in the lowest wage country is impeccable and we should face up to that... I’ve always…” quote by Lawrence Summers](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ac4/lawrence-summers-16940_air_just-between-you-and-me-shouldn-t-the-wo_4703.jpg)
![“[A]s you partake of the world's bill of fare, that's darned good advice to follow. Do a lot of spitting out the hot air. And be careful what you swallow.” quote by Dr. Seuss](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/da8/dr-seuss-1224_advice_a-s-you-partake-of-the-world-s-bill-of-f_6806.jpg)