Experience the Legacy of our DC-3 Mainliner
A fully restored 1945 Douglas DC-3, traveling the country to celebrate aviation history and inspire the next generation
About the Aircraft
Celebrating the Past, Inspiring Tomorrow
Built in 1945, the DC-3 Mainliner has served government leaders like Jimmy Carter, corporate aviation, and commercial operations throughout its remarkable history. Restored by legendary aviator Clay Lacy in an authentic 1948 United Airlines paint scheme, the aircraft now begins its next chapter as a flying ambassador of aviation heritage.
Owned by DC3 Mainliner, LLC. and operated by California Aeronautical University, the aircraft tours the nation to engage aviation enthusiasts and inspire future pilots.
Legendary Ownership
From Clay Lacy to “Mainliner O’Connor”
This DC-3 holds a remarkable place in aviation history. Built near the end of WWII, it remained stateside and later made its way to Van Nuys, California—where it captured the attention of aviation pioneer Clay Lacy.
Raised in Kansas during the Great Depression, Clay became one of the most accomplished pilots of all time. With nearly 200 flight hours by age 19, he went on to fly for United Airlines for more than 41 years—beginning his airline career flying the DC-3.
Clay’s aviation legacy spans the military, air racing, corporate aviation, and even Hollywood, flying in more than 3,000 film projects. He holds numerous world records and still retains the title for the most turbine jet flight hours in history.
In 2000, Clay fully restored this aircraft and christened her Mainliner O’Connor, honoring United Airlines founder William Patterson’s executive DC-3.
BOOK THE DC-3
Bring History to Your Event
Our DC-3 Mainliner is available for air shows, aviation events, community celebrations, educational outreach, private experience flights, and even film production. Whether soaring in a demonstration or greeting guests on the ramp in a static display, the aircraft leaves a lasting impression everywhere it goes.
Flights
Take a scenic ride aboard our historic DC-3 and relive the golden age of aviation.
Experience the DC-3 as it was meant to be—airborne. Guided by a professional crew, these flights allow passengers to step into the golden age of aviation. Perfect for creating unforgettable moments in an aircraft that defined early air travel.
Events
Bring aviation history to life to your next event.
Our DC-3 Mainliner is available for air shows, community celebrations, educational programs, and aviation-themed gatherings. Its presence captivates crowds and adds a unique, historic centerpiece to any event.
Media & Film
Capture cinematic footage or photos with an authentic, period-correct aircraft.
From film and television to commercials and photography, our DC-3 Mainliner offers a rare, historically accurate aircraft for on-screen productions. Its United Airlines paint scheme makes it ideal for period pieces and aviation storytelling.
Static Displays
Showcase our iconic DC-3 as a stunning centerpiece for air shows, events, parties, or special occasions.
Perfect for air shows, airport events, STEM days, and community outreach, the aircraft can be showcased on the ramp for guests to explore up close. Visitors of all ages are drawn to its scale, craftsmanship, and rich legacy.
A MISSION FOR THE FUTURE
Inspiring the Next Generation
Now based at Oxnard Airport in Oxnard, California, our DC-3 begins its next mission: to educate, engage, and inspire the next generation of aviators.
This historic aircraft brings the golden age of flight to life—sparking curiosity, building community, and showing young people that a future in aviation is within reach.
