The Aviator Timeline ( Real )

birth
December 24, 1905

Howard Hughes is born

Birth of Howard Hughes, American business magnate, investor, record-setting pilot, engineer, film director, and philanthropist.

business
1932

Howard Hughes starts Hughes Aircraft Company

Hughes Aircraft Company is founded to develop aircraft and aerospace technologies.

aviation
September 13, 1935

Howard Hughes sets air speed record

Hughes sets a new world air speed record, showcasing his skills as a pilot and innovator.

film
May 29, 1930

Release of film Hell's Angels

Howard Hughes releases Hell's Angels, an epic war film that establishes his reputation in Hollywood.

aviation
November 2, 1947

Hughes H-4 Hercules (Spruce Goose) makes its only flight

The massive H-4 Hercules aircraft, also known as the Spruce Goose, makes its only brief flight.

business
1948

Howard Hughes acquires controlling interest in TWA

Hughes acquires significant control over Trans World Airlines, influencing the commercial aviation industry.

health
Circa 1950s

Howard Hughes suffers from worsening obsessive-compulsive disorder

Hughes' mental health issues become more pronounced, affecting his personal and professional life.

death
April 5, 1976

Howard Hughes passes away

Death of Howard Hughes, marking the end of a significant era in aviation and entertainment history.

The Aviator Timeline ( Fictional )

personal_life
Early 1900s

Howard Hughes' Childhood

Young Howard Hughes shows an early interest in aviation and engineering, influenced by his wealthy family background.

aviation_pioneering
1920s

Builds First Aircraft Models

Howard builds and tests his initial aircraft models, demonstrating his passion and innovative ideas for aviation technology.

business
1925

Creates Hughes Aircraft Company

Howard establishes his own company dedicated to aviation design and manufacturing, investing heavily in building new planes.

aviation_achievement
Late 1920s

Sets World Flight Records

Howard pilots his planes to set new records for speed and distance, gaining fame and credibility in the aviation world.

film_career
1930s

Films Aerial Sequences and Movie Productions

Hughes works extensively as a filmmaker, directing and starring in major motion pictures while integrating his love for aviation.

aviation_project
Early 1940s

Develops the H-4 Hercules ('Spruce Goose')

In an effort to contribute to the war effort, Hughes begins construction on the massive wooden flying boat intended for transport during WWII.

aviation_achievement
1947

Test Flights of Spruce Goose

After a long delay, Hughes successfully completes the brief test flight of the massive H-4 Hercules, demonstrating his persistence and vision.

personal_life
1930s

Relationship with Katharine Hepburn

Hughes develops a significant and influential romantic relationship with actress Katharine Hepburn during his rise to prominence.

personal_life
Mid 1940s

Involvement with Ava Gardner

Howard enters into a relationship with actress Ava Gardner, which influences aspects of his personal and professional life.

personal_life
Late 1940s to 1950s

Public Mental Health Struggles

Hughes' obsessive-compulsive disorder and related mental health issues become more apparent, affecting his behavior and management.

business
1950s

Business Ventures and Airline Expansion

Hughes pushes forward his airline business ventures, acquiring and managing multiple airlines in his pursuit of aviation dominance.

personal_life
1950s and beyond

Reclusive Behavior and Isolation

Increasingly withdrawn, Hughes retreats from public life as his mental health deteriorates, spending considerable time in isolation.