"Indeed, piloting skill is more crucial than ever," came the reply.
As the brothers concluded an interview with reporters, Orville Wright approached a figure clad in an impeccably tailored suit—an investor whose quiet support had made this moment possible.
"If we'd built a monoplane, we'd be flying faster and longer by now," Orville commented.
"A monoplane?" The investor raised a brow. "Surely you've considered it?"
"We have," Orville admitted. "But given the current challenges—stability, maneuverability, and the lack of proper runways—a biplane remains the best option."
He wasn't wrong. With no proper airstrips available, monoplanes, though faster, were impractical. The dual wings of the biplane offered double the lift and unmatched stability—a necessity for these early flights.
"Still," Orville added, running a hand over the aircraft's gleaming body, "it's remarkable to see an aluminum frame like this. It's lighter than the chromoly steel we used before."
