subject: Howard Hughes-the History Of An Aviator [print this page] One of the most famous names in the world of aviation is Howard Hughes, an American entrepreneur, philanthropist, film maker and of course, Aviator. The film 'The Aviator' charted the life of Hughes, played by Hollywood heartthrob, Leonardo Dicaprio. The film may have touched on some of the more well-known parts of Howard Hughes' life however there is more to the man than meets the eye. As one of the most influential aviators in history, Hughes set several world air speed records and bought Trans World Airlines which went on to merge with American Airlines. His eccentric behaviour may have taken centre stage in the film adaptation of his life but when it comes to his aviation exploits, Hughes definitely holds his own.
Born in 1905, Howard Hughes was born in Texas to Allene Stone Gano and Howard Hughes Snr. At an early age he shows promise as an inventor, using spare parts of his father's steam engine to create a motorized bicycle. He took his first ever flying lesson at the age of 14 and took classes in both mathematics and aeronomical engineering at Caltech. He learned his flying skills at Rogers Airport, Los Angeles under the watchful eye of pioneer aviators such as Moye Stephens. His commissioned the creation of custom aircraft which he flew himself including the infamous Hughes H-1 Racer which set the landplane airspeed record of 352mph in 1929. Just a year and a half later Hughes set the transcontinental airspeed record, flying non-stop from LA to Newark in 7 hours and 28 minutes. The innovative design of the H-1 influences further aircraft designs especially thanks to the retractable landing gear and joints set flush to the body to reduce drag.
In 1938 Hughes flew around the world in just 91 hours, another world record. He wanted to prove that safe, long distance travel was possible and the flight turned out to be a triumph for American aviation. For a short time Houston Airport was even renamed the Howard Hughes Airport however objections by the public forced a return to the original name. As an aviator Hughes received many awards including the Harmon Trophy, Collier Trophy and even a Congressional Gold Medal in 1939 to recognise his achievements in advancing the field of aviation. In true Hughes style he did not come to Washington to pick up the medal himself, it was instead mailed to the house by President Harry Truman.
