TWA Corporate Headquarters Building
The TWA Corporate Headquarters Building is a commercial building in the International Style, constructed between 1956 and 1964 in Kansas City. It features prefabricated concrete slabs attached to steel beams, with red and white metal panels covering the exterior, and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2002.
The building was constructed in 1956 to consolidate Trans World Airlines, which had grown since its founding in the 1930s under ownership that included aviation pioneer Howard Hughes. After relocating its main offices to New York in 1964, the airline faced financial difficulties, changed hands multiple times, and ultimately ceased operations when American Airlines acquired it in 2001.
The building takes its name from Trans World Airlines, which made this location its headquarters from 1956 to 1964 and positioned the city as a vital aviation hub. The red and white metal panels on the exterior reflect the 1950s enthusiasm for modernity and progress, a look that defined the airline industry and urban life of that era.
The building is located in Kansas City's business district and is easily visible from the street with its clear lines and bright colors that make it stand out. The site is walkable for visitors interested in architecture or aviation history, and the exterior can be viewed at any time from the sidewalk.
A large model rocket ship called Moonliner II was originally mounted on the roof of the building and symbolized the 1950s optimistic view of space travel and innovation. The model was later removed, but a replica was reinstalled during restoration efforts in the 2000s and stands again atop the roof today.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
