FULLERTON : Terminal Named for Airport Enthusiast

Fullerton Municipal Airport’s terminal today will officially be named after the late William H. Walters, a long-time resident who was known in the community for changing the airport’s image.

City officials, airport workers, pilots, residents, friends and family will unveil Walters’ name on the north side of the airport tower. The public is invited to attend the 5 p.m. ceremony.

Walters died in May at age 68. He was a retired chief scientist for Hughes Aircraft Co. and an aviation enthusiast who is remembered by city officials and airport neighbors as the man who established a method of flying more quietly to reduce noise.

Robert E. McNutt, president of the Fullerton Airport Pilots Assn., said Walters “discovered about eight years ago that reducing propeller rpms (revolutions per minute) by between 100 and 200, aircraft could reduce noise levels by about 50%.”

McNutt said Walters’ discovery pleased Buena Park residents who had complained about noise.

“He was my best friend and I think it’s very appropriate that of all the people the terminal could’ve been named after, this is probably the most important person,” McNutt said about Walters. “He worked tirelessly to establish good relations. He was quiet and unassuming about his many accomplishments and he loved to share his love of flying with everyone.”