Douglas DC-3
Last updated: 2026-04-21
The Douglas DC-3 is widely regarded as the aircraft that made commercial aviation economically viable, first flying in 1935 and with hundreds of examples still airworthy worldwide, including several operated for heritage flights across Europe. It is a workhorse of European EASA general-aviation training fleets, used at both DTO and ATO operators for hour-building and rating progression. undefined
What is the Douglas DC-3 used for in flight training?
The DC-3 type rating remains actively sought by pilots at heritage operators including Aviodrome in the Netherlands and private charter organisations. Its tailwheel configuration, radial Pratt & Whitney R-1830 engines, and manual hydraulic systems provide hands-on experience with 1930s-1940s airline operating procedures. DC-3 checkouts require prior tailwheel endorsements and training from experienced type-specific instructors. Pilots who qualify on the DC-3 often describe it as the most rewarding type checkout of their careers, combining genuine engineering history with demanding manual flying skills.