Oldest Flying DC3 Takeoff Events Flagship Detroit

Check list, start engines, test and takeoff in Corning NY Sept 2007 at the Ferrari Meeting.

Numerous attempts were made to design a “DC-3 replacement”, over the next three decades (including the very successful Fokker Friendship) but no single type could match the versatility, rugged reliability and economy of the DC-3 and it remained a significant part of air transport systems, well into the 1970s. from https://www.douglasdc3.com/dc3throt/dc…Buzz Meyer who is restoring a DC-3 in the livery of Eastern Airlines to flying condition had this to say….. In Short, operating costs are approximately $450 to $550 per hour, depending on what you set aside for engine and airframe overhaul. You would burn 90-100 gallons of fuel per hour, and 2 gallons of oil per hour. A DC-3 is about the least expensive large airplane that a couple guys can afford to work with. Parts are generally available. Skilled DC-3 mechanics are getting rare, and DC-3 pilots can still be trained at about $650 per hour for lessons.