Which inventors are known for their contributions to early aircraft development?

The Wright brothers, Orville and Wilbur Wright, are widely recognized for their groundbreaking contributions to early aircraft development. They achieved the first powered, controlled, and sustained flight of a heavier-than-air aircraft on December 17, 1903, with their aircraft, the Wright Flyer. Their innovative use of wing design, control surfaces, and engine development set the foundation for modern aeronautics. The Wright brothers' experiments and eventual success in flight were pivotal in demonstrating the potential of powered flight, making them key figures in aviation history.

In contrast, other individuals listed have made significant contributions in their respective fields, but they were not involved in aircraft development. Rudolf Diesel was known for his work on the diesel engine, Michael Faraday is famous for his contributions to electromagnetism and electrochemistry, and Charles Goodyear is recognized for developing the vulcanization process for rubber.