Last Chance For A DC-3 Classic Flight

If you are looking for a taster of airline travel from a bygone era then you had better act quickly, as the classic Douglas DC3 is to be removed from passenger service in June of this year due to new EU regulations.

The aircraft first flew in 1935 and was instrumental in operations in the Second World War, however will not be grounded as it will continue to be used for airshows and film work as well as making an appearance in the brand new James Bond film Quantum of Solace.

A farewell tour will be taking place in June with the DC3 visiting 18 UK airports and giving those who will not be flying aboard a chance to say farewell to the aircraft. There is understandably some frustration from fans of the DC3 as to the nature of the EU legislation and the requirements it has made. The website Air Atlantique has outlined some of these requirements and stated that the EU stipulated that the aircraft be fitted with oxygen masks despite the fact that it never flies high enough to require them. Also required were deployment chutes from the steps to the ground despite that gap being only 4ft, which was both too expensive and impossible due to the equipment not being available.

Sadly the decision had to be made for the aircraft to be removed from passenger service. It was expected that the DC3 could have safely flown passengers for another 70 years so the EU ruling has come as a blow to those who have lovingly restored and taken care of the aircraft.

If you would like to book a flight before it is too late then visit Air Atlantique

Published by: Jon Vickery