For financial reasons, the Dutch DDA Classic Airlines has to stop operating the historic “Prinses Amalia”, a Douglas DC-3, this year. Flight operations are scheduled to cease on October 1, 2024.

The PH-PBA was first civilly approved in the Netherlands in 1946. Previously, this machine carried military registration 42-100971. In 1975, this Douglas DC-3 was initially decommissioned and taken to a museum at Schiphol Airport. It took a few years, but in 1994 the historic aircraft was sent to the UK for restoration. In 1998 the DC-3 was ceremoniously handed over to the Dutch Dakota Association (DDA). Their DDA Classic Airlines is still responsible for operation and maintenance today.

At the beginning of last year we lost a sponsor who had supported the non-profit organization for seven years. In the meantime, the costs for the hangar, maintenance and insurance have also increased dramatically. At most airports you also have to pay high fees for using the runways. All in all: The costs are growing beyond the club's board of directors.

It has now been decided that the PH-PBA should be shut down at the end of the 2024 summer season. This year, those interested may have the last chance to fly with this historically valuable aircraft. By the way: According to DDA Classic Airlines, even procuring fuel is no longer that easy, because the avgas required for piston engines - and which is heavily leaded - is no longer offered at many airports. This means you are very limited in terms of possible destinations for sightseeing flights. In addition, there is a lack of young technicians who are well versed in historical aircraft.

There will be another big highlight on June 6, 2024. Today's PH-PBA took part in D-Day on June 6, 1944. On the occasion of the event to mark the 80th anniversary of the invasion, which played a decisive role in the Allies winning the Second World War, there will be a gathering of numerous airworthy “Dakotas” from several European countries and the USA. The “Prinses Amalia” will be there. Possibly the last time.