One notable African American-owned airline in Black history is the Universal Airlines Corporation, which was founded in 1945 by William J. Powell. Powell, a pioneering African American aviator and entrepreneur, established Universal Airlines as the first Black-owned airline in the United States.

Universal Airlines started out with charter flights and later expanded to provide scheduled passenger service between Los Angeles, California, and Oakland, California. The airline also offered charter flights to destinations such as Las Vegas and Mexico.

Despite facing significant challenges and discrimination in the segregated aviation industry during that time, Powell and Universal Airlines made significant strides in breaking down barriers and providing opportunities for African American pilots and aviation professionals.

Universal Airlines was a trailblazer in Black history as a symbol of African American achievement and entrepreneurship in the aviation industry. Although it eventually ceased operations in the late 1950s, its legacy continues to inspire future generations of Black aviators and entrepreneurs.