Smith: Douglas Dc3 Airplane

Description

For nearly half a century, Douglas DC airplanes -- the most important family oftransport planes in the history of aviaition -- have been taking off and landing across America. During this time, approximately eleven thousand aircraft have been built for both military and civilian use. The DC aircraft were initially used by TWA which wished to build an airline that would compete with United Airlines and their Boeing 247. Thus, the first famous DC line -- featuring the DC-1 --was started. Soon, an improved version, the DC-2 took to the air servicing American customers. An elegant, low-winged monoplane, the DC-2 was delivered to TWA and the company immediately ordered forty of the improved model. By August 1934,the DC-2s were flying on the longest American run -- from New York to Los Angeles. However, DC-2 production was closed down in 1936 when the DC-3 made its appearance. This third version of the DC aircraft, which is featured in this artwork, was the most popular and best known of all DC aircraft. The DC-3 was developedfor American Airways and it was a larger and more powerful plane than its predecessor, the DC-2. It made its first flight on December 17, 1935 and made its first non-stop run from New York to Chicago in June 1938. Soon, this remarkable aircraft was represented in every American airline and in most of the leading European airlines as well. The rugged dependability and comfort of the DC-3 made it one of the most versatile and practical of aircraft.