December 1935 saw the first flight of an aircraft that has since outlived all expectations. Over 10,000 examples of the Douglas DC-3/C-47 were built from 1936 to 1946, with many of the C-47 military variants being converted to passenger configuration after World War Two. Dozens of DC-3's are still flying today in many countries around the world on scheduled services, charter operations, hauling freight and in private collections. This superb DVD documentary provides an interesting and colourful study of the Douglas DC-3 in the 21st Century.

Take a trip back to Santa Monica, California in 1935, and view the origins of the DC-3. You'll see archive footage of DC-3 manufacture, and some marvellous scenes of DC-3's in early airline service in America. Now, forward to the 21st Century, and unique footage of the aircraft undergoing a major inspection and overhaul programme. See 'under the skin' and view only what the engineers get to see.
The wings and tail are off, fuel tanks out, the interior is stripped, and skilled craftsmen work for hundreds of hours to inspect and refurbish the aircraft to flying status again. There's a close-up look at the DC-3's Pratt & Whitney R-1830 radial engines: cylinders, pistons, crankcase....

This film will thrill you with exclusive stunning close-ups of engine starts, taxiing, take-offs, landings, and all the sights and sounds of the Douglas DC-3. Hear the roar of 2400 Pratt & Whitney horses with full power engine run-ups! Join the pilots of the Pionair DC-3 for a short cockpit flight and see what happens on the flightdeck of this classic propliner. The 21st Century 'Stars' of this film are DC-3 ZK-AMS of Pionair Adventures and DC-3 ZK-AWP 'Kaitaia' in New Zealand National Airways Corporation 1960's livery, reminiscent of air travel from a bygone era. This top quality DVDwill delight the aviation enthusiast, historian and the technically minded.
A great gift idea for the aviation enthusiast, a superb memento for anyone who has flown on a DC-3, and a tribute to one of the greatest aircraft ever built. Each film comes with a printed Pilot's

• Both PAL and NTSC versions of this programme are only available on DVD-R. DVD-R discs will play in most DVD players and in any computer DVD drive.