Why does Alberto Santos-Dumont’s biplane flight of 1906 receive credit in aviation history?

Alberto Santos-Dumont's biplane flight of 1906 is credited in aviation history for being the first manned, powered flight in Europe. This achievement is significant because it marked a key milestone in the development of aviation technology. Santos-Dumont piloted his 14-bis, a pioneering heavier-than-air aircraft, and successfully took off, flew a short distance, and landed safely, demonstrating the potential of powered flight.

Unlike other flights that might be attributed to different milestones, this event is particularly recognized within the European context as it showcased the capabilities of human flight with a powered aircraft, distinctively separate from gliders or flights without powered propulsion. This accomplishment fueled further interest and innovation in the field of aviation throughout Europe and beyond, solidifying Santos-Dumont's legacy as a prominent figure in the early days of flight.