Donald Wills Douglas Quotes

A collection of quotes by Donald Wills Douglas.

Donald Wills Douglas (1892-1981) was an American aviation pioneer and industrialist, best known for founding the Douglas Aircraft Company. Born on April 6, 1892, in Brooklyn, New York, Douglas grew up with a fascination for aviation. He attended the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and graduated in 1914 with a degree in mechanical engineering.

Upon completing his education, Douglas gained experience working for various aircraft manufacturers before founding his own company in 1920. Initially known as the Douglas Company, it later evolved into the Douglas Aircraft Company. Douglas quickly earned a reputation for producing innovative and reliable aircraft. He introduced multiple advancements, such as all-metal construction and the creation of the world's first successfully mass-produced commercial transport aircraft.

During World War II, Douglas Aircraft Company became a crucial player in the defense industry, producing iconic aircraft like the C-47 Skytrain and the A-26 Invader. Douglas continued to drive the company's success after the war, overseeing the development of the DC-3, DC-4, DC-6, and DC-7, which became widely used in both civilian and military applications.

In 1967, Douglas merged his company with McDonnell Aircraft Corporation to form McDonnell Douglas Corporation. Under his guidance, the company continued to prosper, becoming one of the largest aircraft manufacturers in the world. Douglas retired as chairman of the board in 1977 at the age of 85. Donald Wills Douglas passed away on February 1, 1981, leaving behind a remarkable legacy as an aviation pioneer and a key figure in the development of the aerospace industry.