Before the world knew it as the C-47 Dakota, this aircraft started life as the Douglas DC-3 airliner. Introduced in 1935, it was a true game-changer for aviation. For the first time, airlines could fly passengers comfortably and actually make a profit without relying on mail contracts. With space for 21 people and even sleeper berths on some routes, the DC-3 set new standards for speed, comfort and reliability. It quickly became the backbone of commercial aviation, shrinking travel times and con

31K views · 1.1K reactions | A very happy 85th birthday to the venerable Douglas DC-3, which first flew on December 17, 1935! One of the most influential aircraft in the history of air travel, the DC-3 is still a working aircraft today as well as a mainstay at air shows and gatherings across the country. Where does the DC-3 rank on your list of historically important aircraft?! | EAA - The Spirit of Aviation | Facebook