Maiden flight

In the early days of aviation it could be dangerous, because the exact handling characteristics of the aircraft were generally unknown.

The maiden flight of a new type is almost invariably flown by a highly experienced test pilot.

Maiden flights are usually accompanied by a chase plane, to verify items like altitude, airspeed, and general airworthiness.

In the case of civilian aircraft, a new type must be certified by a governing agency (such as the Federal Aviation Administration in the United States) before it can enter operation.

An incomplete list of maiden flights of notable aircraft types, organized by date, follows.