Why did newspapers sponsor flying competitions?

Newspapers sponsored flying competitions primarily to express interest in aviation as news. During the early 20th century, the aviation industry was rapidly evolving, and there was a burgeoning public fascination with flight and air travel. By sponsoring these competitions, newspapers could engage their readership while simultaneously positioning themselves as authorities on the emerging field of aviation. This not only provided fresh and exciting content for their publications but also helped to attract new readers who were captivated by advancements in aviation technology and the achievements of aviators.

The other options may encompass elements of truth, such as promoting aviation technology or generating advertising revenue, but the driving force behind the sponsorship was the newspapers' desire to cover and connect with a topic that was capturing public imagination.