Balloon

The hot air balloon was a pivotal invention demonstrating that objects could be lifted into the air by utilizing a gas lighter than air. The invention led to the first manned flight, using a contained fire to heat air trapped in a large linen bag, thus creating lift.
 Joseph-Michel and Jacques-Étienne Montgolfier France 1783 Balloon

The hot air balloon was a pivotal invention demonstrating that objects could be lifted into the air by utilizing a gas lighter than air. The invention led to the first manned flight, using a contained fire to heat air trapped in a large linen bag, thus creating lift.