Which Way, L.A.?
Recollections of Hughes Aircraft, Innovative American Company
Founded in 1932 by Howard Hughes — pilot, entrepreneur, movie mogul and ladies' man, the Hughes Aircraft Company became America's number one defense contractor. Now it's gone, but its campus is being redeveloped as part of the Playa Vista development.
By Warren Olney • • 1 min readFounded in 1932 by Howard Hughes — pilot, entrepreneur, movie mogul and ladies' man, the Hughes Aircraft Company became America's number one defense contractor. Now it's gone, but its campus is being redeveloped as part of the Playa Vista development. Recently, the new owner, Wayne Ratkovich invited veterans of the best days to party in the world's largest wooden building, where the Spruce Goose was made. WWLA producer Frances Anderton talked with former company president Ken Richardson, who said things really got going after Hughes was forced out by the Pentagon, which said the company was too important not to be run well.
