Each day, the team at Aircraft For Sale selects an aircraft that captures our attention due to its uniqueness, attractive pricing, or other interesting qualities. Our pick for today is the 1943 Douglas DC-3.
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A Timeless Classic
Despite its maximum gross takeoff weight of 29,000 pounds, which may seem excessive to pilots accustomed to light piston singles, the Douglas DC-3 remains an iconic aircraft. Its impressive capability to carry large passenger loads and cargo made it the first genuinely practical and lucrative airliner. This is precisely why, even after nearly a century since its introduction, the DC-3 still graces airports worldwide.
A Testament to Adaptability
What distinguishes this particular DC-3 from the rest is its adaptability and enduring performance, defying expectations set for a design of its time. This aircraft, with its airframe having accumulated 18,878 flying hours, has been upgraded with Pratt & Whitney PT6A-67R turbine engines, each with a mere 50 hours of operation. Additionally, it boasts 115-inch propellers and a fuel capacity of 1,030 gallons.
Modern Upgrades
The cabin of this remarkable DC-3 can accommodate up to 32 seats and features a galley complete with a cooler and hot water dispenser. Notable upgrades include a fire detection and extinguishing system, heated windshields, LED tip nav and strobe lights, landing and taxi lights, standby third battery, and de-ice boots.
Avionics and Instrumentation
The panel of this aircraft is a testament to its modernization. There are no traces of its 1943 origins as it is equipped with state-of-the-art avionics, including Garmin GTN 750 nav/coms, Garmin GTX 3000 transponders, Garmin GTS 8000 TCAS II, Garmin GI 275 electronic instruments, and Collins 331-3G HSI. Other notable features include a Collins ALT-50A radar altimeter, L3 WX-500 Stormscope, weather radar, Pratt & Whitney ADAS+ engine monitoring system, and much more.
Your Chance to Own a Classic
If your mission requires serious, airline-style transport with a touch of adventure, then this rare, updated, turbine-converted DC-3 is an opportunity worth exploring. For those interested, the aircraft is available on AircraftForSale.
You can also arrange financing through the FLYING Financial Group. For more information, please contact [email protected].
Related Articles:
- FLYING Magazine: The Douglas DC-3 Changed Aviation Forever
- FLYING Magazine: DC-3: An Airplane for the Ages
- FLYING Magazine: DC-3 Historical Timeline
- Plane & Pilot: Douglas DC-3
- The Aviation Consumer: Warbird Ownership: Respect Required