'Claude Dornier - Pioneer of Aviation' is a great watch

What is 'Claude Dornier - Pioneer of Aviation' about?

The documentary begins by exploring Dornier's early life, from his birth in 1884 to his studies in mechanical engineering at the Technical University of Munich. It highlights his initial interest in aircraft design and his subsequent employment at the Zeppelin Company, where he worked under Count Ferdinand von Zeppelin.

As the two-part series progresses, it showcases Dornier's innovative designs and breakthroughs in aviation, including the creation of the Dornier Do X, the largest and heaviest flying boat of its time, and the development of the versatile Dornier Do 17, which played a significant role in World War II. The documentary also delves into Dornier's pioneering work constructing metal aircraft and his influence on modern design.

The documentary's interviews with aviation experts and historians provide context and insight into Dornier's achievements. The personal accounts from family members and colleagues are of particular interest that shed light on the man behind the innovations. This help gives you some idea of what kind of an extraordinary man he was.  The film also examines Dornier's career challenges, such as the political and economic obstacles he encountered during World War II and the post-war era.

This fascinating documentary also gives the viewer an insight into the final fate of the company. After Claude Dornier died in 1969, the Dornier company continued to operate and evolve over the years, experiencing several changes in ownership and structure. During the 1970s and 1980s, the company focused on developing and producing various aircraft, including regional airliners, military aircraft, and aerospace components.

'Claude Dornier - Pioneer of Aviation' gives you unprecedented insight into the man and his machines

As showcased by the documentary, in 1985, Daimler-Benz acquired Dornier, the German automotive and industrial conglomerate. Daimler-Benz integrated Dornier into its aerospace division, which later merged with other European aerospace companies to form the European Aeronautic Defence and Space Company (EADS) in 2000. EADS eventually became the Airbus Group in 2014.

Throughout these changes, as the two-part documentary explains, the Dornier name has lived on in different capacities, with various aircraft and technologies associated with the brand. In recent years, the Dornier Seawings company, a joint venture between the Dornier family and two Chinese firms, has been developing advanced amphibious aircraft, such as the Dornier Seastar, showcasing the continued innovation and legacy of the Dornier name in the aviation industry.

"Claude Dornier - Pioneer of Aviation" ultimately serves as a tribute to a visionary who pushed the boundaries of aircraft design and technology. The documentary celebrates his accomplishments and emphasizes the importance of innovation, perseverance, and passion in the pursuit of greatness. 

It is available on Curiosity Stream, a platform for watching various documentaries. You can opt for a monthly subscription worth $5.99 or an annual subscription for $39.99.

So, if you love Dornier aircraft or aircraft in general, this is a must-see for any aircraft enthusiast.