Walter Varney was an American aviation pioneer known for founding the first commercial airline in the United States, Varney Air Lines, in 1926. He played a significant role in the development of air transportation, helping to establish the framework for future airlines. His company later became part of the larger United Airlines. Varney was also instrumental in the advancement of air mail services, which were crucial for connecting distant locations quickly. His contributions to aviation helped pave the way for the modern airline industry, making air travel more accessible to the public and transforming the way people and goods moved across the country.