Douglas DC-3 ZA947 in flight wearing RAE colours. Archival aviation photo by Stuart H. Bourne.
© Stuart H Bourne / Quality Aviation Photos International.
Douglas DC-3 (C-47 Skytrain/Dakota) ZA947 captured in flight wearing the distinctive Royal Aircraft Establishment (RAE) colours. This aircraft, a veteran of WWII and postwar service, is now operated by the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF) and regularly seen at commemorative events across the UK.
Originally built as a C-47A Dakota Mk.3 with construction number 10200, ZA947 began life as USAAF serial 42-24338. It was soon transferred to the Royal Canadian Air Force, serving until declared surplus in 1971. The aircraft was then acquired by RAE Farnborough for trials work and briefly carried the identity KG661—until it was discovered that the original KG661 had been lost in an accident. A new identity, ZA947, was assigned.
Declared surplus again in 1992, ZA947 was transferred to Strike Command and formally joined the BBMF in March 1993. Since then, it has worn several liveries including Kwicherbichen and Portpatrick Princess, and continues to fly in tribute to the Dakota’s role in WWII airborne operations.
Photographed by Stuart H. Bourne, this image showcases ZA947 in a rare RAE livery, highlighting its historical significance and aerodynamic grace. Printed on archival gloss photo paper, this aviation print is ideal for collectors, historians, and enthusiasts seeking authentic, high-resolution imagery of iconic airframes.
