DC-3 Society honors 90 Years with Oshkosh Missing Man Formation flight

Five Douglas DC-3 aircraft flew in a moving Missing Man Formation during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh on July, 21 in celebration of the aircraft’s 90th anniversary. The DC-3 Society stated that the formation served as a tribute to the generations of military veterans, airline crews, maintainers and aviation pioneers who are connected to the DC-3 and its military counterpart, the C-47 Skytrain. The DC-3 flightline at AirVenture allowed visitors to experience the iconic aircraft firsthand. “The response we’ve witnessed throughout AirVenture so far has been extraordinary,” said Moreno Aguiari, Board Chair of the DC-3 Society. “These aircraft are more than historic airplanes—they’re flying museums. Watching people of every generation stop what they’re doing to hear those engines, share memories, and witness our Missing Man Formation reminds us why preserving these aircraft is so important. Their story is far from over.” The DC-3 Society also unveiled official artwork for its first DC-3 Society Operator Conference andamp; Showcase and is actively seeking sponsors and industry partners. The event will take place at the Flabob Airport (RIR) in Riverside, California on December 4th through 6th. The showcase part will be open to the public, while the conference will be exclusive to registered attendees. Registration will open in late August 2026, with more details to follow.