Fledgling Industry Tests Its Wings

Seattle-based Boeing Aircraft and Transport Co. bought 243 acres on Hollywood Way -- the future site of Burbank airport. The $1-million purchase came after a U.S. Commerce Department survey recommended Burbank as an ideal site for a Los Angeles-area airport.

Boeing built hangars, airplane factories, administrative buildings and a flight school, and through Boeing’s parent company, United Aircraft and Transportation Corp., other subsidiaries constructed plants there. The transportation hub now known as Bob Hope Airport was dedicated May 30, 1930, as United Airport.