The Douglas DC-3, first flown in 1935, marked a turning point in aviation history. This twin-engine propeller aircraft, powered by Wright R-1820 Cyclone or Pratt & Whitney R-1830 Twin Wasp engines (1,000–1,200 hp), carried 21–32 passengers or 2,700 kg of cargo over 2,400 km. With a speed of 333 km/h and short-runway capability, it became a favorite of airlines like American Airlines and the military (C-47 Skytrain). Renowned for reliability and versatility, the DC-3 shaped commercial aviation and played a key role in WWII. Over 16,000 units were built, many still flying today.
The Preferred Turbine-3 (DC-3-TP), a conversion by Greenwich Aircraft Corp, upgrades the DC-3 with Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-65AR or PT6A-67R turboprop engines, an extended fuselage, and modern avionics. This enhances fuel efficiency and performance for cargo missions in remote areas.
The Basler BT-67, developed by Basler Turbo Conversions since 1990, is another DC-3/C-47 upgrade. Equipped with PT6A-67R engines, a 1 m fuselage extension, reinforced wings, and Garmin G1000 avionics, it serves cargo, scientific, and military missions, including Antarctic flights. Over 65 units have been produced, proving the DC-3’s enduring relevance.