On October 16, 2024, DDA Classic Airlines‘ DC-3 PH-PBA, lovingly known as Princess Amalia, shut down her engines for the final time with a full load of passengers at Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport. This moment marked the conclusion of 40 years of regular passenger operations with classic airliners in the Netherlands. Founded in 1982 by two Transavia pilots, the all-volunteer Dutch Dakota Association (DDA) successfully operated DC-3s and even a DC-4 for several years, establishing itself as a leading reference for DC-3 operators in Europe. DDA volunteer and mechanic Paul van den Berg penned a heartfelt article about the organization’s journey, which you can read HERE.
In late 2023, DDA management announced that 2024 would be the final season for their DC-3 operations. Financial challenges, including increasing costs for hangar space, landing fees, and insurance, became insurmountable for a volunteer-based organization. Despite the popularity of events like the Market Garden flights in September, Princess Amalia was retired from active flying shortly thereafter and entered maintenance. During the DDA Farewell meeting in October, it was revealed that the Aviodrome Aviation Museum at Lelystad Airport would purchase PH-PBA, intending to keep her airworthy for limited operations.
On December 18, 2024, Princess Amalia embarked on her final flight under DDA Classic Airlines, departing from Schiphol to her new home at Lelystad Airport. This flight included a poignant farewell gesture: two Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF; Dutch: Koninklijke Luchtmacht, or KLu) F-35 fighters escorted the DC-3 for a brief formation salute. This tribute held special significance, as one of the DC-3 pilots was the father of the F-35 formation leader. The F-35s, originating from Volkel Air Base, seamlessly combined this historic escort with a routine training mission.
Upon arrival at Lelystad, the DC-3 was ceremonially handed over to the Aviodrome Aviation Museum for a symbolic sum of one Euro. The aircraft was carefully towed into the T2 hangar, where she will await her new role, ensuring that this iconic aircraft continues to inspire future generations. According to Paul van den Berg, the plan is to keep the airplane airworthy for at least one year to celebrate the DC-3’s 90th anniversary and the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Europe in 2025. DDA technicians will ensure its airworthy status and operational capability.
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Born in Milan, Italy, Moreno moved to the U.S. in 1999 to pursue a career as a commercial pilot. His aviation passion began early, inspired by his uncle, an F-104 Starfighter Crew Chief, and his father, a military traffic controller. Childhood adventures included camping outside military bases and watching planes at Aeroporto Linate. In 1999, he relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, to obtain his commercial pilot license, a move that became permanent. With 24 years in the U.S., he now flies full-time for a Part 91 business aviation company in Atlanta. He is actively involved with the Commemorative Air Force, the D-Day Squadron, and other aviation organizations. He enjoys life with his supportive wife and three wonderful children.
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