This sounds like one episode of the CBS/FOX series, of which I have all 6 VHS tapes with 12 episodes, thanks for the reminder, it’s time I watched this great series again! Some strong American influence, but the quality on the original tapes is superb.
The episodes are:
The Pioneers
The Adventures of Flight
The Aeroplane goes to Sea
Victory over the Sea
Trail Blazers
The Quest for Speed
Giants of the Air
Rivals over the Atlantic
Lighter than Air
Vertical Flight
Bombers
Fighters.
Highly recommended if you can get hold of them!