Currently undergoing its annual inspection in New Zealand, this low-hour airframe (20,500 hrs) offers a rare blend of historical significance and mechanical reliability.

The Highlights

• Combat Origins: Delivered in 1942 as a US Navy R4D1, it was one of the founding aircraft of the Naval Air Transport Service (NATS).
• Royal & Corporate Luxury: Formerly owned by Prince Talal of Saudi Arabia (named ‘Sara’) for desert hunting trips, and previously served as a executive transport for Dow Chemical and Pennzoil, featuring premium ‘Viewmaster’ windows.
• Movie Fame: A true celebrity, this DC-3 featured in the 2006 James Bond film Casino Royale and the TV series Primeval.
• Adventurous Spirit: After years of luxury safari work in Africa as the ‘Spirit of Adventure,’ it was ferried from France to New Zealand in 2012.

Technical Status

This Douglas is equipped with the powerful P&W R-1830-94 engines, offering superior performance over standard models.

• Engines: LH 421 TSO | RH 29.2 TSO (Significant time remaining before overhaul).
• Propellers: HS 23E50 (134.4 TSO), due for NZ CAA calendar inspection in 2025.
• Maintenance: All ADs and SID inspections are in compliance. Features a recently recovered rudder, overhauled tailwheel strut, and new floor panel structures.
• Interior: Configured with 18 seats, ideal for scenic charters or private collections.

Summary

Whether you are looking for a turn-key classic for the airshow circuit or a storied addition to a museum, ZK-JGB represents the pinnacle of DC-3 history. It remains one of the most well-travelled and charismatic examples of the ‘Gooney Bird’ left in the skies.

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