This month marks a major milestone in aviation history: the 90th anniversary of the first flight of the Douglas DC-3. Introduced in 1935, the aircraft revolutionized commercial air travel, reshaped military airlift capabilities, and cemented its place as one of the most enduring and influential airplanes ever built. Nine decades later, the DC-3 remains an icon—still flying, still inspiring, and still central to a vibrant community dedicated to preserving its legacy.
That community has evolved significantly in recent years. What began as the D-Day Squadron, created to honor the Greatest Generation through its 2019 and 2024 transatlantic commemorative missions, has grown into a broader and more permanent initiative: the DC-3 Society. While the Squadron continues its flyovers, outreach, and educational programming, the Society was established to ensure the long-term preservation and operational support of DC-3s around the world.
The organization’s mission now extends far beyond commemorative flights. Through member programs, technical resources, historical documentation, and youth education, the DC-3 Society works to keep these aircraft flying and to share their stories with future generations. For those who have followed the Squadron’s journey, membership offers a direct way to support this growing effort—helping sustain aircraft operators, fund preservation activities, and expand public engagement.
As part of the 90th anniversary celebrations, the Society is offering a special opportunity for its members: an exclusive screening of “Into Flight Once More,” presented in partnership with Sound Off Films. Narrated by Gary Sinise, the award-winning documentary chronicles the aircraft and crews who participated in the 2019 D-Day Squadron mission, highlighting the personal stories and challenges behind their historic flight across the Atlantic. The virtual screening will take place on December 17 at 3:00 p.m. EST and will be followed by a live Q&A session with mission crew members. All active Society members will receive access information in advance. Membership must be current to attend.
For those whose memberships have lapsed—or for aviation enthusiasts looking to join for the first time—the Society is offering a special holiday discount. Using code 20HOLIDAY25 at checkout, new and returning members can save 20 percent on any membership tier through DC3Society.org. To participate in the anniversary screening, members must join or renew by Tuesday, December 16, at 11:59 p.m. EST. Click HERE to join the DC3Society.
As the DC-3 enters its tenth decade of flight, the aircraft continues to symbolize resilience, innovation, and global connection. Through the work of the DC-3 Society and its supporters, its legacy remains very much alive—honored not only through remembrance, but through action, education, and a continued commitment to keeping these historic aircraft in the air. Click HERE to join the DC3Society.
