Douglas DC-2 Royal Dutch Airlines KLM

General Product Description

Our PlaneArts Douglas DC-2 Royal Dutch Airlines KLM model exhibits unique, unrivaled quality and detailed design to come as close as possible to the accuracy of the actual plane. It comes as standard with a robust, durable base or stand which is available in a variety of different finishes designed to match your own personal requirements including solid wood, wood with polished metal supports or adjustable wood wall mount and will be ready within about 9-10 weeks from placement of order.

The Douglas DC-2 Royal Dutch Airlines KLM model is made of the finest kiln dried renewable mahogany wood (commonly known as Lauan or Meranti) which has undergone many stages of carving and meticulous and careful sanding giving the beautiful finished museum quality masterpiece. Many collectors and model connoisseurs demonstrate their preference for genuine handmade and hand painted mahogany wood models rather than plastic or die cast (diecast) alternatives due to the overall look and totally different feel of the item - we trust you will find the same. We can, however, if required produce the same model in Solid Cast Resin so just click and contact us us for further information. Our craftsmen and gifted artisans ensure that our finely handcrafted model airplanes match the precise blueprint details of the original aircraft. The paint scheme, markings and parts are closely matched, reflecting the original aircraft. This stylish top-quality desktop replica model will surely enthrall anyone who receives this as a gift and for sure one of the most appropriate and desirably collectable gifts for any aviation enthusiast and avid aircraft collector whilst also displaying a perfect resemblance to the actual aircraft.

If you require we can also make the Douglas DC-2 Royal Dutch Airlines KLM model in any other airline, private livery or colour scheme you require and if necessary in a different size or scale. Just click here to contact us with a description or photographs of what you require, and we will let you have a quotation for the necessary customization by return email. We can also make bespoke scale replicas of any other private / civil commercial airliner or airliners, helicopter, glider, gliders with engines, military jet, warplane jets, propeller warplanes, biplane, triplane, tail fin, spacecraft, rocket or NASA model you require in any airline, military or civilian livery or colors. We also produce model airships, blimp, dirigible, blimps, boat and ship collectibles. Wall plaque or seal for military, government or private customers. Again, by clicking here to contact us just let us know exactly what you need.

The Douglas DC-2 and Its Pioneering Role with KLM Royal Dutch Airlines

The aviation industry has seen numerous groundbreaking aircraft, but few have left a legacy as distinct as the Douglas DC-2, especially in its service with KLM Royal Dutch Airlines. Introduced in the early 1930s, the DC-2 was a response to the growing need for a reliable, faster, and more comfortable airliner. Its association with KLM, the world’s oldest airline operating under its original name, marked a significant chapter in aviation history, showcasing innovation, endurance, and the globalization of air travel.

Revolutionary Design and Performance

The Douglas DC-2 emerged from the success and limitations of its predecessor, the DC-1. With a lengthened fuselage, it could accommodate 14 passengers, representing a significant improvement in capacity and comfort. Powered by two Pratt & Whitney radial engines, the DC-2 was capable of a cruising speed of approximately 210 mph (338 km/h), making it one of the fastest airliners of its time.

The aircraft’s design emphasized aerodynamic efficiency, with a retractable undercarriage and all-metal construction that contributed to its performance and reliability. These features not only set new standards for commercial aviation but also demonstrated the potential of modern air travel to bridge vast distances quickly and safely.

KLM’s Pioneering Spirit

KLM’s adoption of the DC-2 in 1934 was a testament to the airline’s pioneering spirit and its commitment to advancing commercial aviation. The DC-2 allowed KLM to expand its route network significantly, including the establishment of the Amsterdam-Batavia (now Jakarta) service, which was one of the longest air routes of the time. This route underscored the DC-2’s capability to operate long distances reliably, a crucial factor in its success with KLM.

One of the most notable achievements of the DC-2 in KLM’s service was its participation in the 1934 London to Melbourne MacRobertson Air Race. The KLM DC-2, named “Uiver” (Stork in Dutch), not only competed in this grueling long-distance race but also secured second place overall and first in the commercial transport section. This remarkable feat garnered international acclaim and demonstrated the DC-2’s exceptional performance and durability.

Legacy and Impact on Global Aviation

The Douglas DC-2’s contributions to KLM and the broader aviation industry are profound. By facilitating faster, more efficient, and comfortable air travel, the DC-2 played a pivotal role in making air travel more accessible and appealing to the public. Its success paved the way for the development of the DC-3, an aircraft that would further revolutionize air travel with its improved capacity and performance.

For KLM, the DC-2 marked the beginning of a new era in air transportation, enabling the airline to strengthen its position as a leading international carrier. The experiences gained from operating the DC-2 helped KLM to enhance its operational capabilities and service quality, laying the foundation for future advancements in aviation.

The legacy of the Douglas DC-2, particularly in its service with KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, is a testament to the transformative power of aviation. It represents a period of innovation, exploration, and the relentless pursuit of connecting the world through the skies. The DC-2’s story is not just about an aircraft and an airline; it’s about the enduring human spirit to soar beyond the horizons.