The Douglas DC-3 was developed in 1935 as a derivative of the DC-2 able to carry 14 berths for overnight flight. It became one of the most successful airliners of all time serving with airline companies and military forces around the world. It first flew on December 17th the same year as it’s development and was powered by Pratt & Whitney engines. More than 13, 000 DC-3s, both civil and military versions, U.S and foreign built were produced. These aircraft were only manufactured for seven years, from 1935 – 1942, but amazingly, some are still in flight today!
Recently, during renovations to our DC-3 aircraft by board member Dana Young, he discovered four bullet holes from its former service! This opened the doors to an in-depth search into this exhibit’s history. Produced in 1942 for the U.S Air Force, it was first deployed in the South Pacific in the war against Japan as part of the 403rd Troop Carrier Group, freeing American and European civilian internees imprisoned in the Philippines by Japanese forces – as a C-47 Skytrain!
In 1951, it was registered in Canada as a civilian aircraft and used to haul supplies for the construction of the Quebec North Shore and Labrador Railway. In 1954, it was purchased by Gunnar Mines, flying freight and workers into and out of Gunnar for almost 10 years.
Eventually, our DC-3 was transferred to Eastern Provincial Airways as a passenger plane, and by 1941 it was used for on ground training by Gander Aviation. Lastly, this wonderous aircraft came to its final rest at the North Atlantic Aviation Museum in 1996. Although we don’t have the entire plane, the cockpit on display and accessible for entry has been redesigned for an immersive simulated flight experience!