"Flagship Detroit" at Spirit of St. Louis Air Show 2024. This aircraft was built in early 1937 and was delivered on March 2 as the 24th DC-3 to join the American Airlines fleet at Phoenix. The airliner did not serve in WW2 but it had the distinction of flying First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt several times. In 1947 AA sold the DC-3 which changed hands many times over 34 years, finally being used as an aerial sprayer. Capt. George Dennis and the Flagship Detroit Foundation bought the DC-3 in 2004. Restoration by volunteers has seen the aircraft return to its historically correct paint scheme.

Constructed for and delivered to American Airlines in 1937 this is one of the oldest DC-3s around. Its last commercial use was as an agricultural sprayer for K&K Aircraft from 1985 until 2004 out of Bridgewater (VA). The aircraft was eventually bought by the Flagship Detroit Foundation in early 2005 who's aim it was to restore the DC-3 to its former glory. By the time this picture was taken the aircraft already recieved its origional American Airlines colours but still missing one engine.

Outside the AA Maintenance Base.

DC-3 "Flagship Detroit" was kept busy all day during the event flying passengers on sightseeing flights.

The Flagship Detroit arrives at busy Vancouver International. The oldest flying DC-3.

Aircraft manufactured in 1937.

Very pretty airplane indeed....compare this with the photo I took of her (as N17334) on December 28, 2002 at Bridgewater, VA.