Josefina Gori writes for the Sidmouth Herald.

On December 15th last year, Dakota /DC-3 enthusiasts worldwide united in admiration, celebrating the 88th anniversary of the first flight from Santa Monica, California. The Dakota, affectionately known as 'the four-wheel drive of the skies' or 'the buses of the Colombian jungle,' was a marvel of aviation, born in Santa Monica, California. This aircraft, with its robustness and ability to conquer less-than-ideal conditions, was the epitome of versatility, overcoming the geographical challenges of many regions in Latin America. The Dakota's enduring legacy is a testament to its significant role in the progress and growth of these regions during a time of transformation.

The DC-3, designed by Donald Douglas and Arthur Raymond, was known for its technical innovations. It was equipped with two Pratt & Whitney R-1830 engines, offering a unique range and payload capacity combination. The wingspan was approximately 95 feet, and it had a length of about 64 feet. It was highly versatile, with a flight range of approximately 1,500 miles and a cruising speed of 207 miles per hour. The standard configuration of the original version could transport between 21 and 32 passengers, making it a game-changer in the aviation industry.

During the Second World War, the DC-3 became very popular due to its military versions, the C-47 Skytrain and the C-53 Skytrooper, widely used to transport troops and cargo. These planes played a crucial role in the war effort, often used for paratrooper drops and supply missions. Other models like the R4D, the military version for the United States Navy, and the EC-47, modified for electronic warfare and reconnaissance during the Vietnam War, were also manufactured. After the war, many C47s and C53s were no longer required for military purposes, so they were sold to different operators worldwide for civil service. As a result, there was a wide variety of units available, each with its own unique history and story to tell.

I have fond memories of connecting with planes as a child. My father was an avid aero modeller who would take us to fly the aircraft he built himself. He would place us at the end of the controls and let us fly the planes in circles. One of my favourite scents that bring me back to those days is the smell of Castrol oil mixed with petrol used to propel the engines of his planes.

Planes, particularly the Dakota, became an essential part of my life as they were the only mode of travel to take me from home to university several times a year. They were also the reason for my love affair with the Dakota. This remarkable plane flew me across the Andes and landed me safely at one of the most daring airports in South America. Memories of those days range from a marriage proposal during an emergency landing to the thrilling sensation of walking in high heels to the back of the plane at breakneck speed or flying back to Ecuador on a paratrooper’s DC-3 of the Ecuadorian Air Force with no door and only wooden benches to sit on. The sound of the engines was glorious.

These experiences, among others, have forged a deep and personal connection between me and the Dakota/DC-3, one that I will always cherish. To me the Dakota is still the best and safest plane to fly. The Dakota is capable of landing anywhere! That's probably why they are still used in the most remote areas, and a group in Alaska still rescues and operates them.

During the anniversary celebration in California, one of the pilots stated that the Dakota has at least another 10 to 15 years of service. This is a testament to the enduring legacy of this beautiful plane. As technology advances and new aircraft are developed, the Dakota/DC-3 continues to hold its own, a testament to its timeless design and engineering. May this beautiful plane continue to fly forever, a symbol of our shared aviation history.