National Fly Day

A group of people, dressed in vintage pilot uniforms, standing in front of a historic biplane, surrounded by aviation memorabilia.. — National fly day illustration

Hey there! Are you ready to take to the skies and soar like a bird? Well, get your wings ready because it's National Fly Day! This is the perfect occasion to celebrate the joy of flying and appreciate the incredible history and impact of aviation. So fasten your seatbelts, keep your tray tables in an upright position, and let's take off into the wonderful world of National Fly Day!

When is Fly Day?

It's national fly day on the 13th July.

History of National Fly Day:

National Fly Day is an annual celebration that pays tribute to all things related to flight, from birds gliding through the air to humans conquering the skies in airplanes. This day is a fantastic opportunity to commemorate the incredible accomplishments and advancements in aviation throughout history. From the Wright Brothers' first flight to the modern jumbo jets that whisk us around the globe, flying has truly transformed the way we live and connect with the world.

On National Fly Day, aviation enthusiasts gather to share their love for all things airborne. Pilots showcase their skills in air shows, flying clubs organize special events, and aviation museums open their doors to visitors of all ages. It's a day filled with excitement, awe, and a deep appreciation for the science and beauty of flight.

How to Celebrate National Fly Day:

There are countless ways to celebrate National Fly Day and show your love for the world of aviation. Here are some ideas to take your celebrations to new heights:

Visit an aviation museum and immerse yourself in the history of flight.
Take a scenic flight in a small aircraft and experience the exhilaration of soaring through the clouds.
Organize a paper airplane contest with friends and family, and see whose creation can fly the farthest.
Watch a documentary or read a book about the pioneers of aviation, such as Amelia Earhart or Charles Lindbergh.
Attend an airshow and marvel at the acrobatic feats of skilled pilots.
Take a virtual flight using a flight simulator and test your skills as a pilot.

Remember, National Fly Day is not just about airplanes and pilots. It's also about embracing the feeling of freedom and breaking free from the limitations of gravity. So, spread your wings and let your imagination take flight!

History behind the term 'Fly'

1709

Invention of the word 'fly'

The term 'fly' first appeared in the English language in 1709. It was derived from the Old English word 'fleoge' and the Old Norse word 'fleygja', both of which meant 'fly, winged insect'. This term was then adopted and used to describe the small, agile insects that have two pairs of transparent wings, a pair of large compound eyes, and a retractable proboscis for feeding on nectar or blood.

630 BC

The Ancient Greeks Discover Flight

The term 'fly' finds its origins in the ancient Greek civilization, where they were fascinated by the concept of flying. In the 6th century BC, the Greek philosopher and mathematician Pythagoras made the observation that winged animals, such as birds, were capable of sustained flight. This discovery laid the foundation for the term 'fly' to be associated with the act of movement through the air.

Old English period (around 450 - 1100)

Origins of the term 'fly'

The term 'fly' traces its roots back to the Old English period. In Old English, the term 'fleoge' was used to refer to the insect we now know as a fly. This term was derived from the Proto-Germanic word 'fleugon', meaning 'flying insect'. The Old English term 'fleoge' eventually evolved into 'fly' in Middle English.

Old English Period (5th to 11th century AD)

The Roots of 'Fly'

The term 'fly' can be traced back to Old English, where the verb 'flean' meant 'to fly or take flight.' At this time, the word was primarily used in reference to birds and other flying creatures. In the early stages, 'fly' was limited to describing the physical act of moving through the air.

1000 AD

Invention of Fishing Nets

In the year 1000 AD, fishing nets were invented. These nets were made of various materials such as plant fibers, animal sinew, and later, intricately woven textiles. The use of fishing nets enabled humans to catch fish more efficiently, leading to the exploration and utilization of bodies of water for sustenance and trade. This innovation planted the seeds for the future development of 'fly.'

1556

Invention of the term 'fly'

The term 'fly' was first recorded in the English language in 1556. It originated from the Old English word 'fleoge' which referred to any winged insect. At this time, the term was used broadly to describe various flying creatures, including not only insects but also birds and bats.

Old English (circa 9th century)

Early Origins

The term 'fly' has its roots in Old English, where it was spelled 'fleoge.' During this time, the word referred to any winged insect. In the early stages, the term was used broadly without a specific focus on a particular insect. It was only later that the term 'fly' became more specialized.

1300 AD

Origin of the Word 'Fly'

Around 1300 AD, the word 'fly' made its first appearance in the English language. Derived from the Old English word 'fleoge' or 'fleoge' (a noun form of the verb 'fleogan' meaning 'to fly'), it initially referred to the act of flying as it related to insects or avian creatures. It also carried meanings associated with moving through air swiftly and gracefully.

1783

Fly as a verb

In 1783, the term 'fly' also gained recognition as a verb, meaning 'to move through the air with wings like a fly'. This expansion in meaning allowed for the word to represent not only the insect itself, but also the action associated with flying. It became widely used to describe the motion of birds, insects, and even humans, as they soared through the air.

1611

Narrowing down the meaning

By the early 17th century, the term 'fly' began to be used more specifically to refer to small winged insects, particularly those of the Diptera order, which includes flies and mosquitoes. The narrower definition helped differentiate flies from other flying creatures with distinct names.

Late 14th century

Expanding the meaning

During the late 14th century, the term 'fly' started to take on additional meanings beyond just the insect itself. It began to be used as a verb to describe the action of moving or traveling swiftly, as well as to describe the motion of birds and other flying creatures. The concept of flying became increasingly associated with speed and agility, leading to the adoption of the term in various contexts.

Middle English (14th century)

Focus on House Flies

In Middle English, the term 'fly' started to become associated primarily with the common house fly (Musca domestica). The reason behind this shift may be attributed to the increase in house flies around human settlements during this period. As people encountered house flies regularly, they began using the term specifically to refer to this insect.

Middle English Period (11th to 15th century AD)

The Extension to Human Flight

During the Middle English period, the usage of 'fly' expanded to include human flight. With the advent of hot air balloon experiments and other early flight endeavors, the term started to encompass the idea of human beings defying gravity and soaring through the skies. The concept of 'flying through the air' became more commonly associated with people rather than just birds.

1485

Leonardo da Vinci's Flying Machines

During the Renaissance, the term 'fly' took on new significance with the visionary inventions of Leonardo da Vinci. In 1485, da Vinci sketched designs for various flying machines, including Ornithopters inspired by birds. Although these designs were never realized during his lifetime, they demonstrated da Vinci's visionary thinking and sparked interest in human flight.

Early 17th century

Application to the aviation domain

In the early 17th century, the term 'fly' gained a significant new application: aviation. With the invention and development of hot air balloons and early flying machines, the term 'fly' began to be used to describe the act of piloting aircraft. This extension of the term's meaning demonstrated the cultural impact of human flight and the desire to associate it with the already established term 'fly'.

1486 AD

Publication of 'The Book of St. Albans'

In 1486 AD, 'The Book of St. Albans' was published, a compilation on various subjects including hunting, hawking, and heraldry. This influential book introduced 'fly' as a term specifically related to falconry. 'The Book of St. Albans' contained a section called 'The Treatyse of Fysshynge with an Angle,' which popularized terms like 'fly-fishing' and 'fly-tying.' These terms referred to the use of artificial flies made from feathers and other materials to attract fish.

1782

Evolving use of 'fly' as a verb

The term 'fly' started to be used as a verb in 1782, primarily in relation to flying insects. It referred to the act of flying swiftly, darting, or hovering in the air. This usage highlighted the nimble and unpredictable nature of flies, which became associated with their quick movements.

1848

Fly as a metaphor

By 1848, the term 'fly' had taken on a metaphorical meaning, representing speed, agility, and freedom. It was often associated with the ability to escape or transcend limitations. This metaphorical use can be seen in various literary works, where characters are described as being 'as free as a fly' or 'quick as a fly'. The word had become a symbol of liberation and the ability to move effortlessly.

Aviation Age (20th century AD)

The Rise of Powered Flight

The 20th century witnessed remarkable advancements in aviation technology, with the invention of airplanes and the development of commercial flight. As powered flight became a reality, the word 'fly' evolved to encompass the use of machines to achieve human flight. 'Fly' now referred not only to the act of flying but also to the operation of aircraft, from small planes to jumbo jets, which revolutionized travel and transportation around the world.

1783

The First Manned Hot Air Balloon Flight

The term 'fly' gained further momentum in 1783 when the Montgolfier brothers, Joseph-Michel and Jacques-Étienne, successfully launched the first manned hot air balloon flight in Annonay, France. This monumental achievement marked the first controlled flight by humans and popularized the idea of air travel. 'Fly' became closely associated with the act of soaring through the sky with the aid of technology.

The 17th Century

Fly Fishing Emerges

During the 17th century, the term 'fly' took on a new meaning related to fishing. Fly fishing, as a method of angling, involves using a lightweight artificial fly as bait to entice fish. The term 'fly' in this context refers to the imitation insects or other small creatures used as bait. Fly fishing gained popularity as a sport and continues to be enjoyed by anglers worldwide.

1903

The Wright Brothers and Powered Flight

In 1903, the Wright brothers, Orville and Wilbur, achieved the first powered flight in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. This pivotal moment in history solidified the term 'fly' as synonymous with powered and controlled flight. The Wright brothers' innovation not only revolutionized transportation but also opened up new possibilities for exploration and connectivity.

Digital Era (Late 20th century AD)

Metaphorical and Technological Expansion

In the late 20th century, the term 'fly' extended its meaning beyond the literal act of flying. With the rise of digital technology, 'fly' started to be used metaphorically to describe various concepts. For example, 'fly' came to represent being tech-savvy or having a sophisticated understanding of digital tools. Additionally, 'fly' also found its place in phrases such as 'fly on the wall,' indicating a desire to observe secretly or unnoticed.

1820

Application of 'fly' to fishing

In 1820, the term 'fly' took on a new meaning related to fishing. Anglers began using artificial lures, made to resemble various insects, to attract fish. These lures were called 'flies' due to their resemblance and the way they were cast on the water's surface, mimicking the movement of real flies. This marked the birth of fly fishing as a distinct angling technique.

Early 20th Century

Aviation Takes Flight

The early 20th century marked a significant step in the history of 'fly' with the advent of aviation. The term 'fly' expanded beyond insects and fishing to encompass the act of flying in airplanes. Aviation pioneers like the Wright brothers and their successful flight in 1903 brought the word 'fly' into a new realm, where it became associated with human flight and the exhilaration of soaring through the skies.

1903

First powered flight

The year 1903 marked a significant milestone in the history of flying. The Wright brothers, Orville and Wilbur, successfully accomplished the first powered flight in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. Their invention, the Wright Flyer, lifted off the ground and flew for 12 seconds, covering a distance of 120 feet. This groundbreaking achievement revolutionized the concept of flight and brought the term 'fly' even closer to the realm of human capabilities.

1668 AD

First Known Fly-Fishing Book

In 1668 AD, the first known book dedicated solely to fly-fishing, titled 'The Compleat Angler' by Izaak Walton, was published. This book became a definitive guide on fly-fishing techniques and the art of making various fly patterns. Through 'The Compleat Angler' and subsequent publications, fly-fishing gained widespread recognition as a recreational pastime and a challenging angling method.

19th century

Fly as a metaphorical expression

The 19th century saw the emergence of fly as a metaphorical expression. The idea of 'flying high' or 'flying free' became symbolic of freedom, success, and escape from constraints. This metaphorical usage of fly reflected the human longing for the feeling of soaring through the sky and achieving a sense of liberation.

1969

The Moon Landing

One of the most remarkable moments in human history occurred in 1969 when NASA's Apollo 11 mission successfully landed humans on the Moon. Neil Armstrong's iconic phrase 'That's one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind' captured the imagination of the world. This event expanded the understanding of 'fly' beyond Earth's atmosphere, showcasing humanity's ability to travel and explore beyond our home planet.

Modern Era

Fly as a Verb

As language evolves, the term 'fly' has extended its usage as a verb beyond its original meanings. In modern times, 'fly' is commonly used to describe the action of traveling by air, whether it be for business or leisure. Additionally, the term has gained figurative and metaphorical uses, such as 'time flies' or 'let your imagination fly.' 'Fly' has become deeply ingrained in our everyday language, connecting us to various aspects of nature and human achievements.

20th century and beyond

Expanding metaphors and popular phrases

In the 20th century and beyond, the use of fly as a metaphor expanded even further. Various popular phrases and idioms incorporating the term 'fly' emerged, such as 'time flies', 'flies in the face of', and 'fly on the wall'. These expressions not only added to the richness of the English language but also demonstrated the lasting cultural impact of the term 'fly' and its diverse connotations.

1920 AD

Evolution of Fly Fashion

By the 1920s, fly-tying had evolved into an art form. Anglers began experimenting with new materials, colors, and patterns, leading to the development of countless fly variations. These creative and intricate designs not only aimed to mimic natural prey but also became fashion statements for fly-fishers. The aesthetics and craftsmanship of flies grew in importance, giving rise to collectors and fly-tying competitions.

1908

The aviation connection

In the early 20th century, as aviation became a reality, the term 'fly' took on a whole new significance. It became synonymous with the act of piloting an aircraft. This shift in meaning was driven by technological advancements and the popularization of human flight. Today, 'fly' is commonly used as a verb to describe the act of controlling an airplane or engaging in air travel.

Modern Usage

Contemporary Meanings and Expressions

In contemporary usage, the word 'fly' continues to be employed in various contexts. It is used figuratively to describe something or someone cool, stylish, or fashionable. 'Fly' also retains its original meaning related to flying and aviation, as well as its metaphorical connotations. Moreover, it frequently appears in idiomatic expressions, such as 'time flies' or 'letting fly,' indicating the passage of time or acting impulsively and with abandon.

1927

Transatlantic flight

In 1927, Charles Lindbergh, an American aviator, made history by completing the first solo non-stop transatlantic flight. Lindbergh flew his aircraft, the Spirit of St. Louis, from New York to Paris in 33.5 hours. This remarkable feat captured the world's attention and further solidified the notion of 'flying' as an impressive and awe-inspiring achievement. The term 'fly' became synonymous with adventure, daring, and exploration.

Present

Global Fly-Fishing Community

In the present day, fly-fishing has gained immense popularity worldwide. It has evolved into a respected sport with dedicated communities, clubs, and organizations. Fly-fishing enthusiasts value the skill, technique, and connection with nature this angling method offers. Whether for relaxation, competition, or conservation purposes, fly-fishing continues to captivate and engage individuals across diverse cultures.

1960s

Slang usage and cultural impact

During the 1960s, 'fly' started to gain popularity as slang, particularly in African American communities. It was used to describe someone who was stylish, fashionable, and attractive. This extension of the term's meaning reflected a shift toward a more positive connotation. 'Fly' became a compliment referring to an individual's sense of fashion and overall coolness.

1969

Moon landing

The pinnacle of human flight was reached in 1969 when Apollo 11, a spacecraft operated by NASA, successfully landed astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin on the Moon. This historic event, known as the 'Moon landing', redefined what it means to fly. It expanded the possibilities of flight beyond the confines of Earth and opened up new horizons for human exploration. The term 'fly' now encompassed not only atmospheric flight but also interplanetary travel.