Last DC-3 Produced

On March 21, 1947, the Douglas Aircraft Company completed production of the legendary Douglas DC-3, one of the most influential aircraft in aviation history. The final aircraft rolled off the production line and was delivered to Sabena, the national airline of Belgium. By the end of production, Douglas had built a remarkable 10,654 DC-3s, a figure that included both civilian airliners and military variants produced during World War II.

The DC-3 revolutionized commercial aviation after its introduction in the 1930s. It was faster, more reliable, and more comfortable than earlier passenger aircraft, and it became the first airliner that could consistently make money carrying passengers without relying heavily on mail contracts. During World War II, its military counterpart, the C-47 Skytrain, became indispensable for transporting troops, cargo, and supplies across every major theater of the war.

Even decades after production ended, many DC-3s continued flying around the world, a testament to the aircraft’s durability and timeless design.