History of THE WABBIT EXPWESS

Grunge paper texture or background.

Today’s flying Wabbit Expwess is not the original C-47 that carried paratroopers into battle on D-Day—but it is a genuine World War II veteran with an important service history of its own. Now flying in the markings and spirit of the legendary Wabbit Expwess, this aircraft serves as a living tribute not only to the crews and paratroopers of D-Day, but to all the courageous men and women whose service, sacrifice, and determination helped win the war. Each time it takes to the sky, Wabbit Expwess keeps their stories—and their legacy—alive.

,

World War II Workhorse - 1944-1946

Fresh from the Douglas production line in Long Beach, California, this aircraft entered service with the United States Army Air Forces during the final year of World War II.

Assigned to the 7th Air Force, the aircraft operated throughout the Pacific Theater, serving from:

  • Oahu, Hawaii
  • Manila, Philippines
  • Guam

Following Japan’s surrender in 1945, aircraft 43-15935 remained in military service until being declared surplus in 1946.

Airliner & Cargo Transport - 1946-1990s

Like thousands of military transports after the war, the aircraft found a second life in civilian aviation.

Its remarkable reliability made it valuable to airlines, corporations, and cargo operators around the world.

Notable operators included:

  • Silver City Airways (Australia)
  • The Zinc Corporation  (UK)
  • Indamer Corporation
  • Esso Shipping Company
  • Standard Industries - Tulsa

Throughout these decades the aircraft flew countless passenger, freight, executive transport, and utility missions.

Our Aircraft and Sir Richard Branson's Golden Age Airline

In the early 1990s, British entrepreneur Sir Richard Branson purchased our aircraft and put it to work with Vintage Airways, his nostalgic air-tour venture in Florida.

Designed to recreate the romance of aviation’s golden age, Vintage Airways operated classic DC-3 aircraft on sightseeing and passenger flights, complete with 1940s-style uniforms, big-band music, and period touches that transported passengers back to an era when air travel was an adventure.

The aircraft flew as N12RB and was known as Amelia during its time with the airline.