Beechcraft is one of the most popular general aviation manufacturers in the world. The company was founded by Walter Beech, his wife, Olive Ann Beech, and legendary aircraft designer Ted A. Wells. Walter Beech had previously founded Travel Air Manufacturing Company, another early aircraft manufacturer. After Travel Air Manufacturing Company merged with Curtiss-Wright, Beech was promoted to Vice President. However, his new role kept him far from the actual production of the aircraft, and he became dissatisfied with his role.