What significant milestone in aviation did the Wright brothers achieve with the Flyer no. 3?

The Wright brothers' Flyer No. 3, which flew in 1905, is significant because it was the first powered aircraft to achieve sustained flight with a pilot onboard for a meaningful distance. This aircraft marked a major advancement in aviation history as it demonstrated the practicality of powered flight and set the stage for future developments in aviation technology.

The Flyer No. 3 was notably the first aircraft where the pilot could safely control the craft for extended distances, making it revolutionary because it was not merely a short demonstration flight. Other options such as flying off water, conducting commercial flights, or night flights happened in later years and with different aircraft. Therefore, the achievement of carrying a pilot, and showcasing control and stability over meaningful distances, underscores its importance as a milestone in the evolution of aviation.