Born: Germany
Primarily active in: Germany

1885-1961

Anton Flettner was an aviation engineer and inventor born in Edderseim, Germany. Flettner made important contributions to the airplane, helicopter, vessel, and automobile designs.

During World War II, Anton Flettner headed Flettner Flugzeubau GmbH, which specialized in reconnaissance helicopters for the German Luftwaffe (Air Force). Flettner's helicopter inventions were financed via wealth acquired from his ventilator business.

After serving Germany in both World Wars, Anton Flettner emigrated to the United States post World War II and worked as a consultant to the office of Naval Research at the United States Navy.