To help celebrate the 80th anniversary of VE-Day, the allied victory in Europe, the International Sanicole Airshow welcomes an iconic aircraft that played a pivotal role in the liberation of Western Europe: the Royal air Force Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF) C-47 Dakota.
The BBMF's Dakota, designated ZA947, boasts a storied past that exemplifies the aircraft's versatility and endurance. Constructed as a C-47A by Douglas at Long Beach, California, in 1942, ZA947 was delivered to the U.S. Army Air Forces on September 7 of that year. Shortly thereafter, on September 16, it was transferred under the Lend-Lease agreement to the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF), where it was re-designated as a Dakota III and assigned the serial number '661'. During World War II, this aircraft served primarily within Canada. Post-war, '661' was deployed to Europe.
The aircraft's journey continued as it was acquired by the British Air Attache in 1971 and subsequently registered for use in the UK. In March 1993, ZA947 was officially taken on charge by the BBMF. Since then, it has been an indispensable part of the unit, serving not only as a display aircraft but also playing a crucial role in training pilots and flight crews for the Lancaster bomber.
Following an extensive maintenance period, the aircraft received a wonderful new paintscheme to honour the role of the oft-overlooked Royal Air Force’s South East Asia Command (SEAC). South East Asia Command was a Supreme Allied headquarters, formed in 1943 and disbanded in 1946. DC-3s of South East Asia Command played a vital role during the Second World War resupplying allied forces across Burma, China and India in the Far East as they fought Japanese forces. Following the defeat of Japan in 1945, SEAC Dakotas were used extensively to fly British and Indian troops to Saigon in Vietnam to restore order and transport liberated allied prisoners of war from Vietnam to territiories under full control of SEAC. They also aided the French return to Indochina and provided logistical support in the fight against Viet Minh insurgents.
The BBMF's mission extends beyond mere preservation; it is dedicated to keeping these historic aircraft airworthy and in operational condition, ensuring that the legacy of the men and women who flew and maintained them continues to inspire future generations. Through air displays, flypasts, and educational outreach, the BBMF brings history to life.
Make sure you see this iconic part of aviation history in the air over Hechtel-Eksel and join us during the weekend of 13 & 14 September 2025 at the International Sanicole Airshow.
