A legend of the airways is scheduled to return to Old Buckenham airfield for this summer's air show – more than 70 years after its last dangerous mission to south Norfolk.
Old Buckenham airfield is set to add another icon of aviation to its annual air show this summer on July 28-29.
For the first time the air show will feature an airliner – and one of the most influential in history, the Douglas DC3.
Significantly, this year's air show will be the first occasion for more than 70 years since a DC3 has landed at Old Buckenham; the last time was during the Second World War on a dangerous mission evacuating wartime casualties back from the Normandy beaches to nearby Wymondham hospital.
After more than 80 years, the Douglas DC3 is still in active commercial service every day, a remarkable feat for an aircraft which many people regard as the pioneer of the airline industry.
Capable of landing on multiple surfaces (including, with modifications, water and ice) the DC3 is one of only three airliners able to land at Old Buckenham, which it will demonstrate over the air show weekend, as well as flying a display each afternoon.
The DC3 will take its place among a host of other air icons already confirmed, including the ever-popular B-17 Flying Fortress, Sally B, and Supermarine Spitfire Mk9, MH434 – for many the most famous single engine aircraft in existence.
Air show organiser Matt Wilkins said: 'Every minute of every day for 81 years a DC3 has been airborne and working somewhere in the world, usually saving lives and always performing a mission that no other aircraft is capable of.
'We're delighted that, after more than 70 years, Old Buckenham will once again play host to a true giant of the skies; which will be with us on the ground and in the air all weekend.
'Our main mission is to introduce future generations to the world of aviation and the air show's latest innovations in the form of the Family Centre will make it easier for everyone to enjoy the weekend.'
New centre underlines family-friendly credentials
Old Buckenham Air Show, winner of the 2016 EDP Hoseasons Family Event of the Year, is unveiling a new family centre at the show, offering a range of family-friendly facilities, building on its credentials as one of the region's favourite family events.
The event's new family centre will offer a range of facilities to help families have the best possible day out, including nappy-changing and breast-feeding areas, among other services.
The show continues to offer free admission for the under-12s, over an acre of funfair, gourmet food village and quality ice cream ensuring that families have a memorable and affordable day out.
Advance tickets for Old Buckenham Air Show are available online at oldbuckenhamairshow.com
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