Обука првих српских ваздухопловаца
Training of the First Serbian Pilots

Summary/Abstract: In the developed western countries, especially in the Balkans, motor aviation represented entire technical novelty, which, as any other one, required special staff. A significant role in its foundation was played by the enthusiasm of the educated youth, as well as public opinion, mostly that of Belgrade, which understood the airplane and pilots as representations of a modern national aim. However, the first real steps towards formation of the aircraft staff were undertaken by the army. Between 1912 and 1918 nearly 200 members of this new formation were educated, mostly in France. This formation was specific in certain ways. There were mostly Serbs from Serbia, then Serbs from other parts of the country, but also other Yugoslav nations. A certain number of the French, as well as Russians, who served together with the Serbian pilots and technicians, adds international colors to the staff of „Serbian Air Fleet“. It was strengthened by the fact that Serbian staff also took part in the battles in the West. A structure of the staff is also specific. Although active during the war and for the aims of war, it did not originate from circles of the professional soldiers. Its core was formed of technically literate civilians, able to accept this new skill on the basis of their previous knowledge.

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