Many different means were tested, but it was not until 1783 that humans actually became airborne. The aircraft was made of linen, was filled with heated air from burning straw, and was considered a real vehicle to carry persons.
Hot air is lighter than cold air.
Balloons filled with hot air rise because they weigh less than the air around them. The balloon is pushed up by the cooler air around it. Some limited navigation can be accomplished by dropping a ballast or by valving gas to descend into layers of wind blowing in different directions. A drag rope can be dragged over the ground, helping to stabilize the balloon at low altitudes and slow it down. Skill and experience are required to land a balloon smoothly.