| PAUL E. RICHTER TWA Aviation Pioneer |
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| Founder of Aero Corporation of California Standard Airlines "Transcontinental &Western Air" Trans World Airlines Paul Ernest Richter Jr. This is a tribute to "the Three Musketeers of Aviation" Jack Frye, Paul E. Richter, Walter Hamilton TWA history by TWA...the beginning...the true story to fly directly to the legendary Lockheed Electra, NC18137 Click here ... |
| Paul E. Richter, Executive Vice-President, as pilot of a new Douglas Commercial Skychief in this 1939 TWA award-winning advertisement! The full page black and white ad appeared in all major news papers in the country. |
| And with his election to the Board of Directors of the "Aircraft Finance Corporation of America" it was stated...... "Mr. Richter is one of the outstanding figures in aviation history of the West." "Two of the corporations with which he is identified are conspicuously successful air transport companies: the Standard Air Lines, Inc. of which Mr. Richter is Director and General Manager, and Aero Corp. of California of which he is Vice President and Treasurer. Richter is also co-founder and director of Hawaiian Airways, Ltd." |
| April 16, 1944, Navy Captain, Paul E. Richter, far left, on leave from the Navy for the 1st "Connie" flight, next to him is Jack Frye. The first flight of TWA's revolutionary "Lockheed Constellation" 049 This airliner was the forerunner of all modern passenger planes. It enabled TWA to establish the world's 1st regularly scheduled trans-atlantic passenger service! Another TWA first! |
| 1st Air Sheriffs, Lt. Paul Richter, far right Lt. Jack Frye, next to him and Walter Hamilton, second from the left. sworn in as original members of the Los Angeles Aerial Squadron, established in 1926 to enforce the new Air Navigation Act passed into law that same year... still in operation today. Paul E. Richter Jr.,Vice President of Aero Corporation of California, the west coast dealer of Eaglerock airplanes. The Eaglerock was the official plane of the California Sheriff's office. The Eaglerock.."What to do in a flat spin: Let go of everything; get up and walk out on the wing; sit there and pray". |
| An original brochure for Standard Air Lines Inc. Paul Richter, (left) and Jack Frye, as vice-president and president respectively, with their plane the "Arizonan." This Fokker was in operation between Los Angeles, Phoenix, Tucson, and El Paso Texas. Two other airplanes in service at the time were christened the "Texan," and "Californian." These two men with the founding partner, Walter A. Hamilton, established the first scheduled passenger service between Los Angeles-Arizona and Texas in 1927 |
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| Paul E. Richter Jr. is "known throughout the aviation industry for his passion for safety." Herb Preeg He was Vice Pres. of The Kansas City Chamber of Commerce, head of Aviation ... and from 1927, a member of the Los Angeles Junior and Senior Chamber of Commerce, and New Mexico Chamber of Commerce Member of the Quiet Birdmen, #1682 Associate Fellow of the Institute of Aeronautical Sciences, Wings Club Inc, National Aeronautic Association, Pour's Register,-Top Ranking American Business People Who's Who in the Western Hemisphere, Transportation and Industry, American Aviation, etc. Paul was one of TWA's "Million Mile" pilots, he maintained his currency throughout his life. |
| Paul entered WWII in 1942 as a Lt. Commander and Assistant Chief of Staff, Naval Air Transport Service, Promoted to Captain and Chief of Staff, Operations Naval Air Transport Service NATS |
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| " the Golden Age of Aviation"... In 1924 Paul E. Richter, Jr. earned his pilot's license #309. He was a founding member of the "13 Black Cats", 1925 "One of the few veterans of the barnstorming and stunt era who became an executive of a great airline." Airways, The History of Commercial Aviation in the U.S. by Henry Ladd Smith, 1942 |
Thank you for your interest in Paul Richter TWA Legend! |
| "TRI-REMEMBERANCE" Dedicated to the history of TWA and the TWAers that lived it by the TWAers that wrote it. To Preserve...To Protect...To Document... the true TWA history, the many that made TWA "the Airline Run by Flyers" and Paul E. Richter Jr., Aviation Legend and Pioneer Our focus is actual facts by TWA, without personal opinions and press reports. Some present day writers have fantasized and glorified individuals but these men need no adjectives. The facts speak the accomplishments and will be secured and shared for the benefit of present and future generations of the aviation world. |
| All materials on this Website unless otherwise notated are copyrighted, and the exclusive property of the Ruth Richter-Holden Family. No text, photos or content may be reproduced in any manner without the expressed permission of Ruth Richter |
The 13 Black Cats were famous stunt and movie flyers. They appeared in Howard Hughes', "Hells Angels" and in other 1920s films. Richter contracted with MGM to use Aero Corp.'s planes in the movies. left to right... Matlock, Richter, MacDougall, Nichols |
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| The text of the above article reads; "This Man is not one of TWA's regular pilots-he's their Boss. His name is Paul Richter, and his title is Executive Vice-President of TWA. Usually you'll find Paul Richter at his desk in Kansas City-a competent executive, working hard at running this great trans-continental airline. But here he's pictured doing the job he likes best-FLYING. Regularly, word travels over the line, "The Boss is flying-he's bringing in the 'Sky Chief!" Nothing unusual about this-at TWA. The fact is, from the president down, every one of TWA's top operating officials is an experienced licensed pilot! Paul Richter and President Jack Frye began flying in the early 20's. Larry Fritz, Operations Vice-President, and Tommy Tomlinson, Chief Engineer, starting their flying careers during the World War! These Flying Executives know planes and men. And they see to it that TWA has the best of both! You'll sense the difference in TWA's service the moment you step aboard. You'll like the extra attention paid to passenger comfort..........the delicious meals..........the courtesy of your Hostess..........the efficient service of all TWA personnel. On your next trip, enjoy with complete confidence the world's fastest, cleanest travel. Fly TWA, The Airline Run by Flyers |
Please contact Paul Richter TWA legend if you can help with accuracy of TWA history and "the Three Musketeers of Aviation" Jack Frye, Paul E. Richter, Walter Hamilton twaspirit@yahoo.com |
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| Paul and Daisy, his sweetheart and life-long wife, with his official Air Sheriff "chase" plane. 'Flying Ms. Daisy' in an open cockpit Jenny was the only way to date between LA and Long Beach. Daisy remembered being taxied into the hanger so her oil-soaked outfit would not reflect on business. |
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| January 20, 1896 to May 15, 1949 updating... |
| "The world of mortals is a world of imagination and it changes by thought." author unknown Paul Richter thought there was a future in aviation... |
Conquistadores del Cielo, a private men's club, founded for the purpose of gathering corporate leaders in an informal setting, at dude ranches in the west and annual meetings in NY...men building partnerships, global industries, friendships, and camaraderie. |
| left center, Paul, 1st to fly the "Connie" as a TWA aircraft taking a break after flying the mighty airliner. 1st flight... from the Lockheed plant in Burbank, Ca. for delivery to TWA in Las Vegas ...according to Ona Gieschen, TWA historian, Richter flew the 1st Connie August 1943. far left is John Lockhart, TWA Treasurer, and Jack Frye, with back to camera Coming to this site TWA's incredible contribution to WWII; "Eagles Nest", Men and Planes......... |
| Capt. Paul E. Richter was called to active duty to establish Naval and Military Air Transport Services... He served as the sole Navy representative to the 1st "International Civil Aviation Conference" in Chicago, November-December 1944 and received a citation from Secretary of the Navy, James Forrestal. Adolf A. Berle, Department of State...Dec.7,1944 "I'm sure the results will be benificial not only to Aviation of the U.S but to Aviation of the world; and you should have every reason to be satisfied with your contributions to that end". |
| Paul E. Richter Jr., he loved the American West. a memorial to Paul, from "Conquistadores del Cielo"... "Pioneer in Aviation; co-founder, past President and Chairman of Conquistadores del Cielo; pilot, gentleman and friend." |
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| Aero Corp. 1926 Standard Airlines, The Pioneer Line 1927 In 1927, Paul won the "Western Flying Trophy" fastest time in a civilian plane at the "World Flight Commerative Races" in LA, at Mines Field Lt. Richter also took 5 prizes for speed and efficeincy at the "National Air Races" in LA thanks to marvel mechanic, Walter "Ham" Hamilton |
| "Richter is known as one of the best pilots in the Southwest." Western Flying, March 1926 |
| A Daughter's Thoughts on Paul Ernest Richter 1896-1949 By Ruth Richter-Holden Known in the 20's and 30's as an "Air Ace," "Famous Flyer," "Race Champ," "the best pilot in the Southwest," a member of "13 Black Cats," one of the "Three Musketeers of Aviation," with Jack Frye, and Walt Hamilton, one of the youngest Airline Executives. In the 40's he was described as an "Aviation Pioneer, innovator, organizer, Executive Vice President of TWA, one of the most respected in the Airline Industry, Chief of Operations Naval Air Transport, avid about airline safety, loyal friend, sportsman, little giant, straight shooter, Skipper, and Captain". My research into my childhood hero has confirmed, and validated my youthful impression of a father larger than life, "a living legend." Was it possible for an adoring daughter to make an objective discovery of a "dream-based Dad?" Could reason and maturity of adulthood overcome the emotions of the beloved youth with illusions of the greatest man on earth, my Dad? That was my challenge: to delve into the facts, see it all, loose the fantasies, in the search for truth and the real person, Paul E. Richter. What I found was an incomparable heritage, not because of the accomplishments, though incredible in a short life-span, but because of the character of the man. He was a joyous spirit with undying vision, uncompromising honor and loyalty to principle, to self, and to his fellow man. He was an example by being and doing the right stuff. He truly reached for the stars in a world hanging on by its heels, the epitome of a life worth living. How amazing to me in adulthood that he had the energy and timeless attitude to be the fun-loving fulltime father, though much of my 15 years he was busy building a commercial airline and dedicated to its equal for the military. His statement as a fledgling pilot, "give me enough power and I can fly a barn door" really tells the tale. He encountered life's barn doors with everlasting energy and spirit, Paul's power. Always a man with a purpose and challenge, he approached obstacle "barn doors," lifting them off with apparent ease. Through plodding persistence, he powered through the problems and leapt over the stumbling blocks. Paul Richter's greatness was not in soaring a cloudless sky, but in enthusiastically sailing through the storm and seeing the sunset on the other side, the three-dimensional pilot perspective. He was a true "romantic," be it the romance of flight, his romance with life, and wife, family and friends, and his uprightness with his fellow man. He cared about the baggage handlers' children, the station managers' problems, and the mechanic's tireless efforts. From Presidents and commissary workers came comments of their respect for his integrity, character and his trusted commitment to their interests. Richter knew the importance of each encountered soul, their value, and he let them know they mattered. He had a oneness with others and honored their humanity. |
Materials for this presentation were lovingly researched by my daughters: Susan Holden Walsh Karen Holden Young and "Grandest-Kids", Peter and Kristina Young Without these dedicated family members, this tribute to my father, and their grandfather, would not have been possible! Signed: Ruth Richter-Holden |
| To contact Ruth Richter directly, please E-Mail her at this address: paulrichtertwalegend@yahoo.com |
| Ruth Richter-Holden true to her aviation heritage, with her Piper Warrior II. Ruth, an aviator like her father, is instrument rated and has flown cross-country many times. "For once you have tasted flight you will walk the earth with your eyes turned skyward... for there you have been and there you long to return." Leonardo Da Vinci |
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| From 1942 to 1945 Based in Washington DC and in Oakland, Ca., applying his air transport skills to the war effort, Richter was instrumental in the establishment and developement of NATS, to transport troops and equipment throughout the world. While simultaneouly establishing airbases, Richter was responsible for operations world wide, the Pacific, Caribbean, Europe and the Middle East. He returned to active duty in 1948, with C. R. Smith and Ralph Damon, Paul Richter helped establish and was considered a co-founder of MATS. Military Air Transport Service by Gen. Laurence Kuter,Commander of MATS |
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| To read an article written in 1929 about Standard Air Lines, and Paul Richter, Jack Frye and Walter Hamilton, Please Click Here! |
| The Incredible Saga of TWA's oldest flying aircraft Lockheed Electra 12A NC-18137 An amazing legacy re-discovered, an historic aircraft comes home! Click here to see and read about this treasure.......... |
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| right...Paul Richter with John A. Collings, early T.A.T. pilot and friend, filled Paul's Executive Vice-President position when Paul was on leave from TWA with the N.A.T.S. during WWII. "A hand shake from Paul Richter was set in stone." soon, the men that made "the Airline Run by Flyers"... Gen. Lawrence G, "Larry" Fritz, from "Jenny" to General WWI fighter, 1st Airmail flight, Ford test pilot, Maddux-WAE Vice.Pres. of Operations, TWA V.P. of Operations Commanding Gen. ATC WWII... TWA Spirit site... |
| On May 16, 1949, from The Wall Street Journal to Chicago Tribune to the San Francisco Chronical came reports of Richter's last flight... Paul Richter, read about this man's career and life in his Kansas City Obituary |
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| Between Calls, 1939 a TWA publication- by Art Stewart Profile on Paul Richter, TWA Executive Vice President The pilot's picture featured in the big full page ad released recently entitled "The Boss is Bringing In The Sky Chief" is none other than that of Paul E. Richter, Executive Vice President of TWA. Many of you saw and read that ad. From it you'll know that Paul Richter is a competent pilot with thousands of hours in the air to his credit as well as a remarkable record as an airline executive. We'd like you to know more about him so let's begin with his introduction to Jack Frye, now President of TWA. At that time he was 28 years old and when he walked into Frye's flying school and paid $250.00 in cash to learn to fly, Frye and his partner almost fainted. Richter had gone to California from Denver, where his father had operated an advertising agency. He worked as office boy but advertising and sales were not to his liking. "My ambition was to be an agriculturalist," he recalls. "With this in mind I attended the Colorado agricultural college and when I finished I took over the management of a ranch my father owned in Morgan County." In 1918 Richter joined the army, was commissioned a second lieutenant and failed in an attempt to transfer to the air corps. He was "on the dock" ready to go to Europe when the war ended and he returned to the ranch. As soon as he got a stake he leased the ranch and went to California to learn to fly. "I canvassed every flying school from San Francisco to San Diego and then came upon the one operated by Fuller and Frye," Richter relates. "After I paid up I was turned over to Jack and he taught me to fly. I took Bon MacDougal, daredevil race driver and stunt man on my first solo. The crazy guy got out of the cockpit and went out on the wing. I was worried, but just kept flying. When we landed he offered me a job stunt flying for the movies." Richter became an instructor for the Standard Flying School at $35 a week. He became one of the original "Thirteen Black Cats," those hair-raising stunt men of the early day movies. He climbed out on the wing, hung by his feet, played cards on the top wing and performed similar feats "to earn an honest dollar." He acquired two airplanes, some accessories and had a little of his ranch money left. About this time, three of the school's graduates, Frye, Richter and Hamilton decided to buy it out and form the Aero Corporation of California. Each of the three had something different to contribute--Frye had the vision of the future of aviation, Hamilton was the mechanical genius who could almost turn a washing machine into an airplane engine, and Richter had the stabilizing influence. The school was an immediate success, and Lindbergh had flown the Atlantic so students rushed to them in droves. Advertising by air became the thing--the flyers formed a crop dusting company and spread insect powder all over the San Joaquin and Imperial Valleys and even along the West Coast of Mexico. They took over the agency for Eagle Rock planes and sold over 60 the first year. With the profits from this venture, they started Standard Airlines with Fokker planes. Here was the beginning of the air transport operation for the three men. Their 3-times a week, 1-plane service operated between Los Angeles and Phoenix developed rapidly and was extended to make a daily connection with the railroad at El Paso. From that time on it was just a matter of mergers--first with Western Air Express in 1929, then with Transcontinental Air Transport in October 1930. Through all this, Richter and Frye had remained the closest of friends in their partnership agreement and today as president and executive vice president respectively of TWA, they are continuing the job of building aviation. Although Paul Richter has little time to devote to his hobbies, he is an ardent fisherman and hunter and enjoys all outdoor sports. Flying is one of the things he manages to get in as part of the business. If you ever went hunting with him in the field, you would soon appreciate the care and precision for which he is noted. It's "dead bird" almost before you can get your gun to your shoulder. We know he likes to make these weekend excursions into the Ozarks and on reliable authority it is reported he frequently "doubles" on coveys, and can walk the legs off any average hunter. He enjoys horse back riding and just for good measure, tossed in as neat a steer ride as you could wish for at the Conquistadores Rodeo party last year. Paul Richter is a man's man--he is extremely popular with his employees and friends, and the type of man in whom you are glad to place your confidence. |
| Sept. 26, 1926 at Clover Field, Richter, winner of the ."Western Flying Civilian Sweepstakes Trophy" ..."Reginal Denny Trophy" ...1st place in the Civilian Class 3 at "World Flight Commeration Meet" Richter flew the Alexander Eaglerock in the time of 100 min, 29 sec., the fastest time made by any civilian plane. "The skill of the pilot and the performance of the ship were matters of common knowledge among folk who follow aeronautical affairs...No one expected a ship with a 90 HP motor to beat ships with engines delivering from 160 to 300 HP which Richter and the Eaglerook did". Western Flying, Nov. 1926 |
| among the awards received by Cartain Paul E. Richter; the "Legion of Merit" for oustanding service, Naval Reserve Medal WWII Victory Medal American Campaign Medal "Companion of the Military Order of World Wars" |
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| A world of thanks to Carl Barley, Editor and Marc Brecy, webmaster, for all they do for "The Spirit of TWA" (below) a great TWA information resource, dedicated to Trans World Airlines employees. |
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| In 1924, Paul earned his pilot license #309 and in 1927, Airplane and Engine mechanic's license #702 and Air Transport license #501 |
| Frank E. Samuels of "AERO DIGEST" handing Paul E. Richter, Jr. 1st Air Mail magazine delivery September 1926. Paul is in an Alexander Eaglerock aircraft. "Eaglerock, long thick wings-floated at sea level airfields. Pilots said they carried a box lunch to fend off hunger (starvation) while waiting for the ship to quit flying and set down". J.Don Alexander Frank Samuels was an enthusiastic flyer and Aviation authority. Samuels and Richter enjoyed a close relationship for many years with Samuels leaving treasured scrapebooks to Paul. |
| 1947 to 1949, Paul Richter served as Chairman of the Board and President of T.A.C.A. Airways In May of 1949 as an executive of the Coca Cola company, Paul E. Richter died at 53 years, having the accomplishments of 200 years. |
| Paul Richter continued to managed TWA after Jack's resignation in February 1947. Only two aviation executives, Richter and Collings remained on the Hughes board. Paul was offered the Presidency by Howard Hughes and TWA Board of Directors. but Richter resigned in April 1947 "Paul Richter, who helped put TWA on the air map, quit as TWA's executive vice president with some harsh words: "I cannot agree with the policies, the programs, or the procedures proposed by the controlling stockholder". Time Magazine 4-15-1947 More to come from original corporate papers, personal letters and sound recordings of the times... |
| "Give me enough power and I can fly a barn door" Paul E.Richter Jr. |
| "Sky Pioneers...Not 'thrill-seekers', but visionaries in reach of the stars. These men tested their machines and their mettle, their engines and their endurance. As warriors of wind and weather, these men-in-machines searched and researched the sky." RRH |
| Paul was called "Air Ace", "Race Champ", "Famous flyer" He was an instructor of land and sail planes, aerial surveying and crop dusting In 1926 founder of Aero Corp., of Ca. one of the 1st accredited flying schools in the U.S.... Standard, 1st to do aerial surveying and sightseeing, and crop dusting. 1st scheduled all passenger service with "Standard Airlines", division of Aero Corp formed in 1927 |
| Aviation Executive, Paul Richter establishes an airline for the United States during World War II |
| Click here for a great tribute to Paul E. Richter Jr. Thanks to Gary Hyatt and his Davis-Monthan Field site, an incredible account of early pioneers and planes |
| Thanks K.O. for endless support and laughter...and the Most Awesome "Airplanes, Airlines,"Hot Air Club" site on the world-wide web. click below on logo and Fly there..................... |
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| "It is not enough to just ride this earth. You have to aim higher, try to take off, even fly. It is our duty." --Joseph Yacopi, Argentine luthier |
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| In 1928, Richter flew an early cross-country flight LA to Denver in an OX5 Eagle...participated in a LA to Colorado Springs air race... won the BH Dyas Trophy for 1st place in civilian team relay at Mines Field during the "California Air Races".... Richter won 1st place in the 'cabin plane' for speed and efficiency at the opening dedication of "Hancock Field" in Santa Maria, Ca., flying a Standard Airlines Wasp powered "Fokker Super Universal", 3rd place in the free for all contest. 1929, Frye and Richter flew to Fokker factory at Hasbrouck Heights, New Jersey to take delivery of the first two of the fleet of F-10 super tri-motors. |
| Sitting left, Paul E. Richter, Herb McClelland, Spider Matlock, kneeling, Fronty Nichols, Al Johnson standing left,Sam Greenwald, Bon MacDougall, Art Goebel |
| In 1929, Paul was an elected member of "Professional Pilots Association", Chairman of the Aeronautic Committee of "American Legion" Aviation Post #350 and a Charter member, "Alpha Eta Rho" pilot fraternity, USC |
| Paul Richter in his 1st aeroplane in Los Angeles, California |
| Amazing insight from Paul Richter, TWA Executive Vice President, named a "practical visionary", far ahead of his time in 1941...click for "The Tomorrow of Aviation" |
| In 1927, Paul E. Richter, #1682, was inducted in "Quiet Birdmen", an exclusive group of international flyers, including Lindbergh, Coldwell, Jones, Stinson, Chamberlin, Springs, Schlee and Haldeman. Paul flew New York to Los Angeles in a new "Fokker Universal". He participated in the 1st "Goodwill Air Tour", by the California Chamber of Commerce to dedicate Mills Field, San Francisco, May 1927. In 1927, Frye, Richter and Hamilton started "Standard AirLines" Frye and Richter flew the 1st flights -LA to Phoenix and Tucson. They held Arizona license-Frye #1, Richter #2. Richter piloted the 1st passenger flight, LA to Tucson, in a single engine Fokker and 1st flight to El Paso, Tx. Aero Corp. was the west coast distributor of Alexander Eaglerock and Fokker aircraft. From their one airplane venture 3 times a week LA to Phoenix.... they expanded the Fokker fleet to El Paso connecting to the midwest and Mexico. |
| Richter said of those early days with passengers, heavy loads, hot days and dealing with density altitude "There were times I had to wish it off the ground." |
| LA Times, Sept. 16, 1929 |
| see the most indepth "Early Air Pioneers" site... |
| 1st flight for TWA "Constellation" before delivery to the military |
| TWA and the 1st "Douglas Transport" In 1931, following the crash of a Fokker F -10A (NC999E) that killed the famous Knute Rockne the Fokker was grounded. TWA Pres. Robbins requested that Frye write to the industry with specifications for a new aircraft... "The need for a faster, larger and more comfortable plane was apparent. TWA took the lead, with Frye, Richter, Colonel Lindbergh and D.W. "Tommy" Tomlinson, Vice Pres. of Engineering for TWA, drawing up specifications for a plane that would meet current requirements. Donald Douglas accepted the assignment and the result was the DC-1." from"Wings for Your Work, A Handbook for TWA personnel" In his book "the Grand Old Lady", Douglas said of TWA's request "it was the most important letter I ever received". The DC-1 was designed in 5 days. |
| TWA's "Old 300." NC223Y...1st and only DC1 On Sept. 20, 1932, TWA signed a contract with Douglas for the DC-1. In Dec. of 1933, the 1st DC-1 was delivered to TWA. "After the airplane was delivered to TWA, (Richter and Frye flew it LA to KC) it was used for testing, flight traning, publicity flights, and evaluation tests." On Feb. 9, 1934, FDR cancelled all mail contacts nearly destroying the airlines and bringing death to inexperienced Army Air Corpman designated to fly the mail. To prove to the government that the airline could do it better; On Feb. 18, 1934, "Captain Eddie Rickenbacker and Jack Frye with a team of TWA pilots, left Union Air Terminal and set a record of 13 hours 4 min from Palmdale, Ca to Newark. The usual reports say LA to NY but due to fog in the LA basin, Tommy Tomlinson did a "zero zero" take off and ferried the plane to Palmdale. Often disregarded is the fact that Fritz, Richter and others flew part of the flight. "Si Morehouse and Paul Richter to ABQ, Harlan Hull and Richter to K.C., Larry Fritz and John Collings to CMH where "Andy" Andrews and Fritz continued...arriving EWR 2 hours ahead of schedule." May 14, 1934, TWA took delivery of their DC-2s, the production model of the DC-1. TWA inaugurated service between Columbus-Pittsburg-Newark. June 1934 was the last Army Air Corps mail flights due to many airmen that lost their lives. They lacked the night flying skills of the civilians. TWA regained their mail contracts, but based on conflict of interest, the award was contingent on the resignation of the capable and well liked Pres. Richard Robbins. Paul Richter and Tommy Tomlinson alternated between K.C. and LA with mail, testing the Douglas Transport DC-1, NC223Y, for several months in all weather conditions. Tommy said they nearly froze to death. Dec. 27, 1934, Jack Frye was named President and Paul Richter became Vice President. In 1935, Tomlinson set 8 world records and 11 speed records in NC223Y. His last of 40 tests was on Nov 25, 1936, a west to east Transcontinental record of 11 hours 5 min." from Col. Fred Betts, TWA historian and TWA historian Harold Hyne In 1935, Richter was elected associate to the "Institute of Aeronautical Science". "By 1935, Richter had logged 3107 hrs. solo flight time not including credit for co-pilot; an incredible number of hours for a 10 year period by an airline executive." |
| The beautiful twin engine Douglas Commercial 2 On the far left, Jack Frye?, fourth from the left, is Paul Richter, next to Mr. & Mrs. Donald Douglas. |
| It was tough being an airline pilot in the 30's, George Rice, far right in above photo, was one of TWA' s most illustrious pilots, as Chief Pilot, in LA. He retired in 1957. This picture was sent to Paul and Signed: "Best wishes for a Merry Xmas," Geo Rice after surviving a Northrup Alpha NR999Y crash, Nov. 15, 1934 on the new the "TWA Spirit" site..... more about this grand character and the above heros, Gen. Lawrence. G."Larry" Fritz, Col. Si Morehouse, Lee Flanagin, Eddie Bellande, Ted Hereford, Harlan Hull, Ted Moffitt, Earl Fleet, Ernie Smith, "Dutch" Holloway, Cliff Abbott, Joe Bartles, Jack Zimmerman, Johnny Guy, Swede Golien, Howard "Sonny Boy" Hall, and other men and women who made TWA the greatest. |
| Ham Jack Paul As flyers, they shared the love of flight, a vision of the future of aviation and a life-long bond of brotherhood. Together, they created TWA "the Airline Run by Flyers", a world airline and an aviation legacy. |
| Walter Hamilton, Jack Frye and Paul Richter and a look at the new Lockheed "Constellation"... the Trans-Atlantic airliner that revolutionized the aviation world. |
| In 1936, "Richter headed a group to Boeing to design the model 307, the Stratoliner". "The flat-bellied "Stratoliner"rendered obsolete the Flying Boat." TWA In Jan. 1937, TWA signed the contract for 5 of the 4 engine Boeing 307B Stratoliners. June 27, 1940 Richter took the 1st flight BUR to NYC. July 8, 1940, TWA inaugurated service coast to coast in 13 hrs. 40 min. with pressurized cabins and an industry 1st, in-flight audio entertainment. above facts contributed by Harold Hyne, TWA historian Less than 12 years before with rave reviews, "Standard Airlines" air-rail connection reduced the NY to LA time from 81 hrs. to 70 hrs. |
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| Sept, 1929, another altitude record for Paul... Paul and Jack after their "World Altitude Record of 22680 ft. in a Fokker Tri Motor stock commercial passenger plane." They broke Waldo Waterman's previous record by 2000+ft.. |
| Douglas Commercial Transport TWA was the leader in "Over-weather high altitude research," an industry 1st, T.W.A. propelled the airline industry far into the future. |
| Richter flew and tested all TWA aircraft, including the "Northrop Alpha" & "Gamma" |
| "We realize that TWA would not be what it is today if you were not out there keeping things running smoothly" Myra Black, Washington D.C., Oct. 8, 1942 "I have always felt you were the stabilizer of the TWA organization. This must have been a hard decision to make or see develope because TWA was so much a part of you. TWA, to me, is Paul Richter...You have been one of my guiding lights and favorites for a long time and I hope you don't get too far away." Warren Blazier, Beech Aircraft, 4-22-!947 "To me, you have always been "Mr. TWA" and it isn't going to be easy to separate the two in my mind." Fialeigh Albert, 4-16-1947 "The name, Paul Richter, has meant stability and integrity to those of us who have literally grown up with the airline." R.E. (Bob) Whitmer, 4-15-1947 "Somehow or other when I thought of TWA I have thought of Paul Richter as it has always seemed to me that you were the guiding spirit of that airline." L.P. Cookingham, City Manager, Kansas City, Mo. 4-8-1947 "You and TWA are synonomous." from Tom Braniff to Paul, 4-9-1947, "I have told you many times that you stand for a square deal, stability and everything that breeds loyalty and desire for our company to succeed. You are the symbol of all these things not only to the older employees but to the newer ones who have been told about you by those you have worked with for so many years". TWA V.P. Col. Clarence Fleming, urging Richter to take the TWA presidency...Feb.9, 1947 |
"In 1930, on May 1, WEA acquired Standard Airlines and on July 16, due to a government forced merger, T.A.T. and Western Air Express became Transcontinental & Western Air with Harris "Pop" Hanshue as President. On Oct. 1, T&WA was awarded a mail contract and Oct 25, inaugurated 36 hour coast to coast all-air service with overnight in Kansas City. In 1931, with Richard Robbins as President, TWA relocated from N.Y. to Kansas City, Mo. Thanks to Harold Hyne, 1946 to 1986 , TWA historian for great facts,,,he served TWA from 1946 to 1986 |
| "The Airline Run by Flyers"... Transcontinental & WesternAir Trans World Airlines... inspiration, innovation, growth 1930-1940 and WWII ... |
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| Paul E. Richter Jack Frye Walter Hamilton |
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| Above right, Paul Richter, after his 18000 ft. record, getting a check-up. Jack Frye, second from left note; this photo has been inaccurately titled and dated on another website |
| Nov.7, 1926, At Clover Field, Santa Monica, Ca., Richter set a World Altitude Record, 18,000 ft. for planes 100 hp or less, in his "Eaglerock" with an OX-5 (Hisso)engine. below, Mrs Jaques Vinmont presents the Silver Cup Perpetual Trophy. |
| more on the Black Cats soon |
| "They wanted to pioneer and aviation was the newest frontier." |
| His Jenny cost $500 in 1925 |
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| "To some the sky is the limit. To others it is home." anon |
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| TWA's Million Mile Pilots, "A Gathering of Eagles" |
| 13 Black Cats ..."If a Black Cat can't do it, it can't be done." Paul E. Richter Jr. was on of the original "13 Black Cats" |
| Gen. "Larry" Fritz's grandson, John McAvenia's quote, depicts the spirit of TWA and TWAers, "Risking more than others think is safe, Dreaming more than others think practical, Expecting more than others think possible." unknown |
| Richter tested and piloted all of TWA aircraft, including the Northrop Alpha and Gamma. He flew all the Navy aircraft in the reserves and during WWII. left, a TWA schedule from 1939 right, one of TWA's ads |
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| COPYRIGHTED 2005-2009 All Rights Reserved |
| "Some of the improvements pioneered while Richter held a key executive post are the Douglas Transports, Boeing Stratoliner, the "homing" radio direction finder and anti-range static radio antenna, de-icers, the written flight plan and navigation log, air brakes or landing flaps, automatic pilots and many other revolutionary improvements. All the above were introduced while Richter was progressing from Supt. of Operations to Vice Pres. in charge of Operations to Executive Vice president in charge of all departments of the airline." Nov. 1940, TWA-Between Calls, by Johnny Graves |
| "Three musketeers of Aviation" with Navy Air Ace, Captain D. W. "Tommy" Tomlinson, 2nd from left, "the leader in High Altitude, Over-Weather Research" TWA, V.P. of Engineering, NATS Operations Officer... see page on "Tommy" Tomlinson |
| "For sometime Harris "Pop" Hanshue, President of Western Air Express had been eyeing Standard Airlines. He liked it's promising growth and perfect safety record." |
| "By the end of the war, the Air Transport Command and the Naval Air Trasport Service were operating the equivalent of the biggest airline in aviation history." |
| "Although one of the most hazardous air routes in the U.S., never a forced landing since the inception of the service. The trio was not deluged with offers from bankers who wanted to finance the undertaking. Air transportation as an industry was unknown to them so through neccesity these three young men whose belief in aviation was unshaken pioneered an airline through the Southwest corner of the U.S. without the comforting knowledge of unlimited capitol behind them." Aviation Journal of Commerce, Sept. 1929 |
| From Aero Corp, Standard Airlines, in 1926 to Trans World Airlines in 1946, Frye, Richter and Hamilton shared a vision, created a global airline and contributed to the world of aviation. |
| "the Three Musketeers of Aviation"... From a one plane operation in 1927 to a world airline in 1947. |
| Paul Jack Ham |
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| "air ace", Paul Richter, 2nd from right, with 5 trophies in one day, National Air Races 1927. Jack Frye, 2nd left |
| As with the DC-1, DC-2, Boeing "Stratoliner" and DC-4, Paul Richter was instrumental in the developement of the "Constellation", the forerunner of all modern airliners. |
| In 1939 Richter and Frye convinced Howard Hughes, a friend from the 1920s, to invest in TWA. They owned 6%. With Hughes they gained controling interest due to BoD Leland Hayward, LA movie producer/director, and the remainder of stock being widely held. Hughes's initially acquired 12%. He continued to accumulate shares during WWII unbeknownst to the TWA top men who went to war. Howard's love was aircraft and the "Constellation" was his only involvement. Not until late 1946 with his controling interest did Hughes decide to be active in management for the first time in his life. |
| Paul Richter and Burdett Fuller, 1925 |
| Thus, began 'Los Angeles Airline History'..."Western Ave. in LA was known as 'flyers row' because of the many barnstormers who occupied adjoining fields". Aero Digest's Fred Hatoom, |
| Aero Corporation of California was founded in 1926, Jack Frye, Paul E. Richter and Walt Hamilton, purchased Fuller's Flying School. Richter and Frye were in charge of the flying school. Hamilton was head of the shop, known as the best in the Southwest and by 1929 he had 86 employees. Previously Ham perfected the Duesenberg engine, fastest of it's time. |
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| and thanks to Jeff Hill for his amazing contribution to "TARPA" for TWA history by TWA And to keep TWA flying donate to the"Airline History Museum" in K.C., Mo. for their great restoration of the "Connie", Martin 404, and DC3 |
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| This TWA video by Kaye Chandler gives a brief view of the birth of commurcial aviation...the early history of TWA, Aero Corporation, Standard Airlines, Transcontinental & Western Air... More of Kaye's dedication to the memory of TWA, She captured 20 years in 9 minutes...click here |
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