 Paulhan was born at Pézenas, Hérault, and his heavier-than-air flying career began with making model aircraft.Stationed at St Cyr as a balloon pilot during his military service, in 1905 he won a competition for model aircraft design.Following his national service, he was employed by the balloon manufacturer Édouard Surcouf as an engineer, working on the construction of the dirigible "La Ville de Paris" and making many flights as its mechanic during 1907.