Charles Fern was an American aviator who made history as the pilot of Hawaii's first commercial flight. Born on June 20, 1892, in New York, Fern developed a passion for flying at a young age. In 1919, he decided to relocate to Hawaii, where he would leave a lasting legacy in the field of aviation.
Upon arriving in Hawaii, Charles Fern wasted no time in pursuing his dreams of becoming a pilot. Alongside a close friend, Fern piloted a single-engine plane that carried passengers across the Hawaiian islands. The thrill of flying and the breathtaking views of the tropical paradise attracted many tourists, who were willing to pay $10 for every ten minutes of flight. This endeavor marked the beginning of commercial aviation in Hawaii and set the stage for future developments in the industry.
Charles Fern's legacy extended beyond his aviation achievements. His grand-niece, Charlene Fern, followed in his footsteps by pursuing a career in journalism. Charlene Fern made a name for herself as a noted journalist and even had the honor of serving as a speechwriter for First Lady Laura Bush. The Fern family's influence reached far and wide, leaving a mark on both the aviation and media industries.
As one of Hawaii's pioneering aviators, Charles Fern earned a place in history for his contributions to commercial flight. His daring spirit and dedication to his craft inspired countless individuals to pursue their own dreams of flying. Alongside fellow aviator Bert Hinkler, who shared his birth year, Fern left an indelible mark on the world of aviation.