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The Combs Aircraft Corp building is intrinsically tied to the achievements and innovations of Harry B. Combs, a pivotal figure in American aviation history. Combs, born in 1913, established a significant presence in the world of aviation, both as an entrepreneur and as an influential voice in the development of air traffic control systems and aircraft technology.

In 1958, Combs Aircraft Corp operated out of Stapleton Airport, evolving into one of the largest networks of aircraft sales and service centers in the United States. It also became the leading distributor of Beechcraft airplanes in the country. This period marked a significant expansion in the scope and influence of Combs Aircraft, solidifying its place in aviation history.

Combs' contributions extended beyond the corporate realm. President John F. Kennedy appointed him to Project Beacon, a key initiative aimed at modernizing air traffic control systems across the United States. Many of the principles and practices developed by Combs during this time are still in use today by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

In 1966, Combs Aircraft was sold to Gates Rubber Company, and it was renamed Combs Gates Denver Inc., becoming a subsidiary of Gates Aviation Corp. This sale marked the end of an era for Combs Aircraft as an independent entity but opened a new chapter as part of a larger corporate structure.

Under Combs' leadership, Gates Learjet experienced a remarkable financial turnaround and became a major player in the manufacture of business aircraft. Combs was instrumental in the development of the Learjet, which was the first U.S. civil aircraft approved for a normal cruise at 51,000 feet and incorporated NASA's thrust-enhancing "winglet" technology.

Beyond his business acumen, Combs was also an accomplished author, writing about the Wright brothers and other aviation topics, further cementing his legacy in the aviation world. His work earned him numerous accolades, including the America’s General Aviation Man of the Year award in 1974.

The Combs Aircraft Corp building, therefore, is not just a physical structure but a symbol of a transformative period in aviation history, marked by Harry B. Combs' innovative spirit and his significant contributions to aircraft technology and air traffic management systems【13†source】【14†source】.