Walter Varney
Walter Thomas Varney | |
|---|---|
Walter T. Varney, founder of predecessors of United and Continental Airlines, in 1921 | |
| Born | December 26, 1888 |
| Died | January 25, 1967 (aged 78) |
| Occupation(s) | Pilot, Airline executive |
| Spouse | Aileen Varney |
| Children | 1 |
| Parent(s) | Thomas and Ella Varney |
Walter Thomas Varney (December 26, 1888 – January 25, 1967) was an American aviation pioneer who founded forerunners of two major U.S. airlines, United Airlines and Continental Airlines, which combined under United Continental Holdings in 2010, long after his death in 1967. Varney was also one of the most prominent airmail contractors of the early 20th century.
Varney served as a pilot in the Aviation Section, U.S. Signal Corps during World War I. After the war Varney established an aviation school and air taxi service in northern California.