Take nostalgia flight in classic DC3

HISTORIC: A Douglas DC3 aircraft will visit Rotorua Airport during its open day on March 30.PHOTO/SUPPLIED

Rotorua aviation enthusiasts will soon get the chance to fly back in time in a classic Douglas DC3 aircraft.

People can take to the skies in the DC3 aircraft at the Rotorua International Airport and BayTrust Rescue Helicopter joint open day on March 30. The open day also recognises Rotorua Airport's 50th anniversary.

The fixed-wing propeller DC3 planes were revolutionary in aviation history in the 1930s and 1940s and played a significant role in WW II efforts. The aircraft to visit the open day served in WW II in the US Army Air Force, as well as in the Korean War.

Today, the re-furbished retro aircraft gives people the opportunity to sample its rich history with scenic and charter flights throughout New Zealand.

Fly DC3 airline administrator and part-owner Jessica Cooper said she was excited about the airport's significant 50 year milestone.

"We have been to Rotorua many times before and the people there are always so positive and supportive of aviation," she said.

"Our classic, retro airliner offers a real novelty for people to fly back in time to the 1950s and 60s. Passengers used to really dress up in hats, coats and gloves to go flying and it was an exciting thing to do."

At the open day, three flights will be available for paid scenic tours around the skies of Rotorua and the surrounding region.

"The plane will fly low and slow at 1000 feet (305m), which will give people the perfect opportunity to appreciate the scenery."

A charter flight from Ardmore Airport in Auckland, the plane's base, to Rotorua and back will also be available at the open day.

There will also be paid helicopter joy rides available through Volcanic Air, as well as live displays and information stands by BayTrust Rescue Helicopter, Customs, NZ Fire Service, a NZ Air force Orion, the Coastguard, AVSEC and Rotorua Airport Fire. An Air Force helicopter will be on display, with a fun kids' zone with face painting, bouncy castle and food stalls also on offer.

The open day is from 11am to 3pm, with gold coin entry going to the BayTrust Rescue Helicopter and Blue Light charities.

Parking is available on-site and a free bus will run from the Rotorua Convention Centre to the airport every half hour from 11am.

For more information on the DC3 flights or to pre-book seats, visit www.flydc3.co.nz, email flydc3@paradise.net.nz or call 0800 FLY DC3.