When a Swallow aircraft took off from Pasco, Washington, on an airmail route bound for Boise, Idaho, on April 6, 1926, it marked the beginning of 90 years of aviation firsts for United Airlines.

Since then, United has connected more than 4 billion people to important business meetings, family events, new experiences and cultures, and, most importantly, each other.

"On our 90th birthday, I couldn't be more proud of our rich heritage and the exciting future ahead of United. I want to thank our customers for your loyalty over the years, and we look forward to serving you for many more as we continue to elevate our customer experience today and into the future," said Oscar Munoz, president and CEO of United Airlines.

"I also want to express my deep gratitude to United's more than 84,000 aviation professionals for your unsurpassed teamwork, passion and dedication. You've helped make the world a smaller place by safely and comfortably uniting billions of people around the globe."

United and the family of airlines that it represents has been at the forefront of innovation in the airline industry for the last 90 years. Some of these innovative firsts include:

As Varney Air Lines, united operated its first flight exactly 90 years ago. Varney Air Lines, founded by Walter T. Varney, would become one of the founding carriers of United Airlines.

In 1934, Varney also founded Varney Speed Lines, which would eventually become Continental Airlines. Visit United Hub for more stories, photos and videos highlighting the company's proud history.