Classic DC3 up in the air

A plan was hatched between Chris Jordan, chief executive of the Child Flight Charitable Trust, and Duane Emeny, general manager of Air Chathams to give some deserving children a special treat.

Child Flight NZ provides New Zealand special needs, disadvantaged and vulnerable children, especially from low socio-economic areas, the opportunity for a different perspective of their world. They encourage aviation and education communities through New Zealand to help support their programme and provide a spatial experience of flight. Air Chathams has promised to fly their classic Douglas DC3 from Tauranga to Hamilton and back at no cost to enable three flights on Sunday, November 25.

“We’ll bring our beloved DC3 over from Tauranga to Hamilton for these flights. Everyone loves the aircraft. It has a unique and special history and we’re delighted to be able to help out for such a good cause,” said Duane.

“Hamilton Airport has also contributed providing the Terminal Lounge for the day and Airways is waiving our landing fees.”

Based with Classic Flyers for summer scenic flights, the DC3 is the only surviving RNZAF World War II veteran aircraft still operating today in frontline service.

Built for the days when air travel was a luxury and all about comfort, the interior is roomy with large “skyliner” windows.

Chris Jordan says the first flight was fully booked almost straight away in early November and now there are only three seats left for deserving recipients.

So keep an eye on the sky if you’re in the Waikato on November 25.

You may see a blast from the past on this special occasion for Air Chathams and the Child Flight Charitable Trust.