On U.S. National Aviation Day, we proudly reflect on the remarkable contributions of Howard Hughes, an aviation pioneer whose legacy is intricately woven into the fabric of Summerlin®. Hughes, known for his groundbreaking advancements in aviation, left a lasting impact on the industry, and his influence is echoed throughout our community in various ways.
Aviation-Inspired Names in Downtown Summerlin®
Downtown Summerlin® is not only a premier destination for shopping and entertainment but is also becoming a sought-after place to live, offering urban-style living in three luxury apartment developments: Constellation®, Tanager®, and Tanager Echo. Each of these developments carries a piece of aviation history in its name, paying tribute to the innovative spirit of the industry.
Tanager
Tanager is named in honor of the Curtiss Model 54 Tanager, an aircraft constructed in 1929 by the Curtiss Aeroplane and Motor Company. This name continues the Aviation Row theme that began in Downtown Summerlin in 2015, with the naming of the area’s first luxury apartment complex, Constellation®. The name Constellation is a nod to the Lockheed Constellation, a plane built by Lockheed Corporation and significantly influenced by Howard Hughes, who played a critical role in its development and success.
Constellation
Constellation, one of the luxury apartment complexes in Downtown Summerlin, proudly carries a name that honors the legendary Lockheed Constellation aircraft. This iconic plane, which revolutionized air travel in the 1940s and 1950s, was closely associated with Howard Hughes, who played a pivotal role in its development. By naming this residential development Constellation, Summerlin not only pays homage to Hughes’ lasting legacy in the aviation industry but also reflects the spirit of innovation and excellence that defines our community.
Spruce Goose Street
Running north and south immediately east of Las Vegas Ballpark and the 1700 Pavilion Office Building, Spruce Goose Street is named after The Spruce Goose, one of Hughes’ most ambitious projects. Officially known as the Hughes H-4 Hercules, this massive aircraft, built in 1942, was constructed entirely of wood due to wartime restrictions on metals. The aircraft was six times the size of any other aircraft at its time, making it an extraordinary feat of engineering, even though it only made one brief flight.
As we celebrate National Aviation Day, it’s essential to recognize how Howard Hughes’ vision continues to inspire us, not just through his contributions to aviation but also in how his legacy has been thoughtfully integrated into the design and naming throughout our vibrant community. Whether you’re walking down Spruce Goose Street or residing in one of our luxury apartments like Constellation or Tanager, you are constantly reminded of the rich aviation history that helped shape the world we live in today.
Happy National Aviation Day from all of us at Summerlin!