Douglas DC-3

Douglas DC-3

NOTE: Previously published as Aeroplane Classic Airliner: The Douglas DC-3.

Although many early aircraft were designed to carry passengers, the creation of a practical and versatile airliner is a story that began with American designer Donald Douglas, and the legendary DC‑3. This first true airliner paved the way for the hundreds of increasingly advanced commercial aircraft that have emerged over the 80 years since Douglas’s design was developed. With the outbreak of World War Two, the sudden need for a capable transport aircraft led to the creation of the C‑47, a military derivative of the DC‑3. After World War Two, countless examples of the military C‑47 were suddenly declared redundant, and they were resold to civilian buyers around the world, their abundance and inexpensiveness enabling many fledgling airlines and other commercial operators to grow and prosper.

Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of the DC‑3’s story is that the aircraft is still being used today. Even though the aircraft has long since made way for larger, faster, and more capable airliners, the DC‑3 is still a sturdy, reliable aircraft. With more than 110 photographs, this new book edition showcases this incredible aircraft, the many roles it has served, and the liveries it has worn.

Available: NOW

ISBN: 978 1 80282 370 7

Price: £15.99

Series: Historic Commercial Aircraft Series, vol 13

Format: Paperback, 96 pages