What is an important improvement over the balloon in the development of flight?

The dirigible represents a significant advancement in the evolution of flight compared to the traditional balloon. Unlike simple balloons, which rely solely on buoyancy and cannot be steered, dirigibles (or airships) incorporate propulsion and control systems that allow for guided flight. This ability to maneuver and travel to distant locations was a groundbreaking enhancement in aviation technology.

Dirigibles are equipped with engines and mechanisms that enable them to ascend, descend, and change direction, providing greater versatility and functionality compared to balloons. This capability allowed for more extensive exploration and transportation possibilities, paving the way for further developments in aviation technology. While hot air balloons, airplanes, and gliders each contributed uniquely to the history of flight, the dirigible's combination of lift, propulsion, and navigation marks a pivotal moment in the advancement of aerial travel.