Howard Hughes Jr. (1899 – 1990)

 Rationale for Inclusion       

• Pioneering Aviator and Record-Setting Pilot: Howard Hughes Jr. was a celebrated aviator who broke several aviation records during the 1930s and 1940s, establishing himself as one of the most daring and innovative pilots of his time. In 1935, he set a world speed record by flying his Hughes H-1 Racer at 352 mph, making it the fastest landplane in the world. Hughes continued to push the boundaries of aviation by setting a new record for a transcontinental flight from Los Angeles to New York in just 7 hours, 28 minutes in 1937, and again in 1938, when he completed a round-the-world flight in a record-breaking 91 hours. 
• Founder of Hughes Aircraft Company: Hughes founded Hughes Aircraft Company in 1932, which grew into one of the most influential aerospace and defense companies in the world. Under Hughes’ leadership, the company became a pioneer in aircraft technology and aeronautics. The company played a critical role in the development of advanced aircraft designs, radar systems, and later, missile technology. 
• Aircraft Innovation: Hughes designed and flew the Hughes H-1 Racer, a revolutionary aircraft that set the world speed record in 1935. The H-1 Racer featured groundbreaking aerodynamic innovations, such as the laminar flow wing and a fully retractable landing gear, which significantly reduced drag and increased speed. Further, Hughes developed the Hughes H-4 Hercules, commonly known as the Spruce Goose. The H-4 was the largest flying boat ever built, designed during World War II to transport troops and equipment across the Atlantic. Although the aircraft flew only once in 1947, its massive size and innovative design represented a significant engineering feat. 
• Advancements in Commercial Aviation: Hughes’ impact on commercial aviation was significant, particularly through his involvement with Trans World Airlines (TWA). In 1939, Hughes acquired a controlling interest in TWA and played a major role in modernizing the airline’s fleet. His decision to purchase Lockheed Constellations for TWA helped the airline become a leader in long-distance commercial air travel during the 1940s and 1950s. Under Hughes’ leadership, TWA became one of the world’s premier airlines, offering superior service and advanced aircraft, which helped revolutionize commercial aviation.
• Technological Innovation and Contributions to Aerospace: Beyond his work in aviation, Hughes was a key innovator in the broader aerospace industry. Hughes Aircraft Company became a major player in defense and aerospace, contributing to advancements in radar, communications systems, and missile technology. Hughes’ company was involved in the development of radar systems used during World War II, and later, missile guidance systems during the Cold War.