Douglas DC-3 Aircraft

The Douglas DC-3 (and military C-47 Skytrain) is one of the most significant and beloved aircraft ever built — a twin-radial transport that transformed aviation and continues to fly today in transport, skydiving, vintage and display roles. Rugged, characterful and supported by a devoted community, it is the quintessential classic radial airliner — a serious but deeply rewarding ownership proposition.

Douglas aircraft

· 32-seat · Reference price ~$900,000 ($450,000–$1,800,000) · updated recently

Douglas DC-3 Specifications

Model spec

The Douglas DC-3 is a 32-seat multi engine piston with a cruise speed of 180 kt (333 km/h), a range of 1,300 nm (2,408 km), and a useful load of 6,000 lbs (2,722 kg).

Performance
Cruise180 kt (333 km/h)
Range1,300 nm (2,408 km)
Service Ceiling24,000 ft (7,315 m)
Engine & Fuel
EngineWright;Pratt & Whitney R-1930 Twin Wasp
Horsepower1,200 HP
Fuel Burn100.0 GPH (378 L/h)
ICAO TypeDC3
Weights & Seats
Seats32
Useful Load6,000 lbs (2,722 kg)
Production1935–1945

Douglas DC-3 for Sale

No Douglas DC-3 currently listed for sale.

This page updates automatically the moment one is listed — check back soon, or browse the Douglas range.

Compare Douglas DC-3

See how the Douglas DC-3 stacks up against similar aircraft in specs, price, and operating costs.

Douglas DC-3 vs Beechcraft Model 18

Douglas DC-3 Price & Cost

Douglas DC-3 Price Guide

Key price factors: engine time to overhaul, year and airframe hours, avionics, damage history and logbook completeness — see the buying guide below for the full pre-purchase checklist.

Douglas DC-3 Cost of Ownership estimate
Fuel (100.0 GPH × $6.20, 100 hrs)$62,000/yr
Estimates at 100 flight hours/year. Actual costs vary by usage, location and insurance.
Buying guides: Buyer's Guide | Financing Guide | Pre-Buy Inspection

Buying a Used Douglas DC-3

Buying a Douglas DC-3 comes down to a focused pre-purchase checklist — here is what matters most on this model:

What to check before buying

  • Radial engines — P&W R-1830 (or conversions) hours, overhauls, compressions and parts/support.
  • Airframe & corrosion — large vintage structure; thorough corrosion and structural inspection.
  • Airworthiness — category (restricted/standard/experimental), operating limitations and ratings.
  • Configuration & role — passenger/cargo/skydive fit and any role equipment.
  • Operating budget — high fuel burn and specialist radial maintenance; budget realistically.
  • Documentation — complete logs, military/service provenance and restoration records.

Frequently Asked Questions — Douglas DC-3

Cost?
From — to —, median — across 0 listings; condition, engines and role
Can a private owner operate a DC-3?
Yes — many are privately owned and flown; the keys are radial
DC-3 vs C-47?
The C-47 Skytrain is the militarised DC-3 (cargo door, strengthened floor). Many
Disclaimer: All prices, cost estimates, and market values shown are based on asking prices from third-party sources and are provided for informational purposes only. AeroGurus is not an appraiser, broker, or financial advisor. Always obtain a professional appraisal and independent inspection before making a purchase decision.
Listings last refreshed recently · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data