Donate & See Your Impact

Honoring the Aircraft That Changed the World

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On December 17, 1935, the Douglas DC-3—originally the Douglas Sleeper Transport (DST) made its maiden flight from Clover Field in Santa Monica, California. Douglas Aircraft Company vice president and chief test pilot Carl A. Cover was at the controls, accompanied by engineers Fred Stineman and Frank Coleman. This groundbreaking aircraft revolutionized commercial aviation and redefined air travel worldwide.

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During World War II, the DC-3’s military variant—the C-47 Skytrain (Dakota)—became a vital asset for the Allied forces. Rugged and reliable, it transported troops, equipment, and paratroopers into remote and contested areas, playing a key role in major campaigns and symbolizing hope and liberation in Nazi-occupied Europe.

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​Today, the DC-3 Society—the only official type society for this legendary airframe—unites pilots, mechanics, operators, and enthusiasts worldwide. We are on a mission to keep these historic aircraft flying, celebrated, and remembered. By maintaining airworthiness, supporting operators, and presenting these aircraft at airshows and commemorations, we honor everything the DC-3 has achieved in war and peace—ensuring its legacy continues to inspire future generations.

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Join Us in Celebrating 90 Years of Service

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In 2025, we proudly mark 90 years of the DC-3—an enduring icon with over 150 aircraft still flying worldwide. To honor this milestone, we have set a commemorative fundraising goal of $19,350, representing the year of the aircraft’s first flight.

 

Your donation supports:

✈️ Airworthiness & Safety – Helping ensure DC-3 aircraft remain safe and flight-ready worldwide.

✈️ Education & Training – Supporting pilots, mechanics, and crews with opportunities to learn and carry forward DC-3 operations.

✈️ Flying Missions & Commemorations – We provide critical support for fuel, oil, and logistics so DC-3 operators can participate in historic flights, airshows, and veteran events, even when budget constraints would otherwise limit their involvement.

 

✈️ Young Historian Program – We empower the next generation of aviation enthusiasts to preserve and share the full story of the DC-3. This includes documenting the heroic sorties and experiences of veterans who flew, crewed, and maintained these aircraft, uncovering untold stories, and fostering a lifelong interest in celebrating each DC-3 in our society and communities.

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As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, your gift is tax-deductible and directly helps keep the DC-3 flying and its story alive for decades to come.

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Every Gift Makes a Difference

Whether large or small, your contribution helps us continue our mission to preserve, operate, and celebrate the DC-3for future generations.

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Choose Your 90th Anniversary Donor Package

​Make a special anniversary donation and receive exclusive commemorative items as our thank-you:

 

✈️ $90 Gift

90th Anniversary Sticker

Sew-On Flight Patch

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✈️ $190 Gift

Limited-Edition 90th Challenge Coin

Commemorative Sticker

Embroidered Velcro Flight Patch

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✈️ $300 Gift

DC-3 Society Polo (Men’s or Women’s Cut)

Challenge Coin, Sticker & Velcro Patch

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✈️ $590 Gift

Exclusive 90th Anniversary DC-3 Poster

Includes ALL commemorative items above

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🛫 Supplies are limited — don’t miss your chance to be part of aviation history.

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Make Your Gift Today

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Your generosity ensures the DC-3’s remarkable story and flying legacy will inspire generations to come.

 

Thank you for celebrating the Grand Dame with us!

The DC-3 Society Team

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