DC-3 ZS-CRV Takes to the Skies Again

A true legend of the skies, Douglas DC-3 ZS-CRV completed a successful test flight yesterday, delighting aviation enthusiasts and marking another chapter in the remarkable life of one of South Africa’s most iconic vintage aircraft.

Originally built in 1942, ZS-CRV has an extraordinary history. She served in World War II as a Royal Canadian Air Force Dakota, flew across Canada, the United Kingdom and Cuba and eventually became a mainstay of Southern African aviation. Over the decades, she has carried soldiers, diplomats, safari guests and even welcomed a newborn baby mid-flight in 1975.

Today, the aircraft is owned by Menno Parsons and operated by Master Power Aviation at Rand Airport, proudly holding the distinction of being the only airworthy DC-3 in South Africa.

Yesterday’s test flight was expertly handled by Robbie Heard, Rob Waghorn and Grant Timms, ensuring that this living piece of aviation history remains in top condition. From her polished fuselage to her enduring airworthiness, ZS-CRV continues to celebrate the engineering excellence of the Douglas DC-3 and the golden age of flight.