Aviation pioneers: The first practical hang gliders were designed by which aviation pioneer? Context: Identify the early designer whose late-19th-century gliders established controlled, repeated unpowered flights. Choose the correct name.

Given data

• Topic: Origins of hang gliding / first practical glider designs.

Concept/Approach
Recall the 1890s pioneer widely called the “father of gliding.”

Step-by-step
• Otto Lilienthal (Germany) built and flew weight-shift hang gliders in the 1890s, demonstrating repeated controlled flights.• George Cayley predated Lilienthal theoretically; the Wrights came later with powered flight; Rogallo designed the flexible wing much later.

Final Answer
Otto Lilienthal