Dan Patterson, producer of Blue Skies and Tailwinds, takes his Sinclair Community College aviation students to Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park.

Dayton played a key role in pioneering mid-air refueling, as engineers at McCook Field worked to extend the range of military aircraft. Early attempts included a “wing walker” with a 5-gallon gas can strapped to his back.

A century of aerospace growth has propelled Dayton to new recognition. The report highlights the area's long-standing ties to military innovation, which Dan Patterson digs into for the latest episode of Blue Skies and Tailwinds.

After World War II, the U.S. government no longer needed WACO's assault gliders. What followed was an extraordinary surplus story that led to piles of boxes of airplane parts in a Shelby County field.

Dan Patterson shares this history of aviation cargo, from the first 1911 Wright Flyer delivery to modern freight dogs who keep global supply chains moving through air freight logistics.

Army Air Corps Lt. Dashe Reeves and his aerial photographers help define what are now UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Ohio.

Dan Patterson tells the story of the early years of aviation and the race for new planes to fly higher and faster than anyone thought possible.

During WWII, Dayton's airport became a major modification center for warplanes before they were sent to combat areas. Dan Patterson discusses that history and how companies like Sierra Nevada are continuing the legacy today.

Dayton's aviation leadership and vision in World War I is still something we benefit from more than 100 years later.

Before every flight, pilots walk around their aircraft... a ritual the Wright Brothers created. Dan Patterson takes you through the intimate process of preparing to fly.