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Walter Douglas, Jr.

Arizona Aviation Hall of Fame
Enshrined 1990

Walter Douglas, Jr. was born in Santa Barbara, California and grew up in New York City. He learned to fly in 1930, soloing in a Fleet biplane that is now on display at Pima Air Museum. Walter moved to Tucson in 1934 and set up a flight school and fixed base operation at what is now Davis Monthan A.F.B. In 1938, he founded Grand Canyon Airlines to provide service between Boulder City, Pierce’s Ferry and the Grand Canyon. In 1942, he developed Gilpin Airport in northwest Tucson, and during WWII he moved his operations to Gilpin and trained over 1,100 Naval Air Cadets, military and civilian personnel. Walter was well known for his contributions to the community and educational issues. He continued flying until his death in 1987.