Jane Davis Doggett, Wayfinding Pioneer and Creator of TPA’s Iconic “Spirit of Flight” Logo, Dies at 93

Longtime Tampa International Airport friend and icon of the aviation industry Jane Davis Doggett passed away this week at her home in Sun City Center, FL, at the age of 93.

Doggett not only came up with TPA’s Red and Blue Side concept to help passengers easily find their pick-up and drop-off locations, but she also designed the Airport's iconic "Spirit of Flight" logo which is still in use today, more than 50 years later. Highly regarded as an industry wayfinding pioneer, she made her mark on TPA and worked on dozens of other airports around the world.

Doggett was inducted into the Florida Artists Hall of Fame in 2016 and was the first recipient of TPA’s Spirit of Flight Award in 2022, honoring women for their contributions to aviation. She often shared stories of her time at TPA in the late 1960s and early 1970s, as the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority was designing and building its "new" Airport, which opened in April of 1971. Doggett's intuitive signage system continues to serve TPA and its guests well, as the Airport is often praised for its convenience and easy navigation.

"Jane truly loved Tampa International Airport, which was apparent in her colorful and meticulous work she did more than 50 years ago, as well as in her delightful spirit every time she came to visit us," TPA CEO Joe Lopano said. "She leaves behind an incredible legacy that will be enjoyed for generations to come. We are thankful to Jane, and we will miss her greatly."

Doggett continued to create artwork and graphics after she retired from airport work, and continues to inspire graphic artists and students with her revolutionary ideas and designs.

A service for Doggett is planned in the coming months at her beloved summer home near Corea, Maine.