[2] To insure a sound base for operations, Keys proposed an initial subscribed share capital of $2 million, many times that of other early airlines.

This was a key link in the US airmail network, connecting two important cities and regions with the transcontinental route through Chicago.

was acquired by United Aircraft and Transport Corporation, a holding company that already owned several airlines that operated as independent divisions.

On 2 April 1927 the airline was awarded the contract in competition with three other bidders; the rate was to be $1.24 per pound of airmail carried.

[9] NAT passenger flights between New York (Newark) and Chicago began in December 1930, one Ford Trimotor a day each way.