The Pioneers

Authors: Manfred Baur. History & science - BR - 2007 - 45 / 52 min

1910: The pilots are the heroes of a new age. Their record flights are top news, fascinating an audience all around the world. Faster, further, longer, and higher - that is the motto of the time. One of the greatest challenges is the crossing of the Alps - the fragile planes have to master erratic turbulences, and freezing temperatures, and the lack of oxygen threatens the life of the pilots.

Our film tells the fascinating story of the defeats and victories of the men who risked their lives in this endeavour - from the first successful flight across the Alps to the first mail and passenger service up until today, when crossing the barrier has become a matter of an hour or less.