Why was the war in the air a significant battle of WWI? (Three reasons)

Also, supporting evidence and examples would be helpful too.

Thank you
~Lucy

http://www.firstworldwar.com/features/aces.htm
http://www.firstworldwar.com/airwar/observation.htm

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_War_I#Technology

Fixed-wing aircraft were first used militarily during the First World War. Initial uses consisted of reconnaissance and ground attack. To shoot down enemy planes, anti-aircraft machine guns were used, and, more effectively, fast fighter aircraft. Strategic bombing aircraft were created principally by the Germans and British, though the former used Zeppelins to this end as well.

Towards the end of the war, aircraft carriers were used in combat for the first time, with HMS Furious launching Sopwith Camels in a raid against the Zepplin hangars at Tondern in 1918.

The war in the air was a significant battle of WWI for several reasons:

1. Reconnaissance and observation: Aircraft were used for reconnaissance purposes, providing valuable information about enemy positions, movements, and strategies. They enabled commanders to have a better understanding of the battlefield, which was crucial for planning attacks and defenses. For example, the British Royal Flying Corps' aerial photographs helped identify German trenches during the Battle of the Somme in 1916, allowing for more effective artillery bombardments.

Supporting evidence: The use of aerial photography and observation played a crucial role in gathering intelligence during WWI. The development and use of aircraft for reconnaissance can be seen in the following sources:
- The link provided (http://www.firstworldwar.com/airwar/observation.htm) discusses the importance of aerial observation in WWI, including specific examples of successful reconnaissance missions.
- The "Technology" section of the Wikipedia article on World War I (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_War_I#Technology) mentions the use of aircraft for reconnaissance purposes.

2. Aerial warfare and dogfights: The war in the air witnessed the birth of aerial combat, with fighter planes engaging in dogfights. This necessitated the development of specialized aircraft and tactics. Fighter pilots became celebrities in their own right, achieving "ace" status by shooting down enemy planes. These aerial battles played a significant role in disrupting enemy air superiority and protecting friendly ground forces.

Supporting evidence: The following source provides more information on aerial combat and dogfights during WWI:
- The link to the article on aces in WWI (http://www.firstworldwar.com/features/aces.htm), discusses the rise of fighter pilots and their role in aerial combat.

3. Strategic bombing and air superiority: Both sides in WWI used aircraft for strategic bombing, targeting enemy infrastructure, cities, and military installations. The Germans and British were at the forefront of developing strategic bombing aircraft, including the use of Zeppelins. Air superiority also became crucial, as the side with control of the skies had a significant advantage in disrupting enemy supply lines, communication networks, and morale.

Supporting evidence: The involvement of aircraft carriers and strategic bombing can be found in the following source:
- The Wikipedia article on World War I's "Technology" section (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_War_I#Technology) provides information on the development and use of strategic bombing and the involvement of aircraft carriers during the war.

In conclusion, the war in the air during WWI was significant due to its role in reconnaissance and observation, aerial combat, and strategic bombing, which all had a profound impact on the operational aspects of the war.