The Prudent Acquisition of Warbirds: Unveiling the Dornier DO-27 B-3

Auction Excellence: The Best Way to Acquire a Warbird

Purchasing a warbird at auction, such as the iconic Dornier DO-27 B-3, is an exceptional way to acquire a piece of aviation history with transparent documentation and maintenance records. This method not only ensures that you get a comprehensive view of the aircraft’s past but also secures a valuable asset that can retain or appreciate in value over time. The Dornier DO-27 B-3, registration D-EDFL, set to be auctioned from May 29 to June 5, 2024, is a prime example of such a prized possession.

Historic Significance and Impeccable Maintenance

This particular aircraft, manufactured in 1959, is not just any warbird; it was piloted by the legendary astronaut Neil Armstrong and has been kept in a hangar and meticulously maintained to exceed German and EU standards. Its impeccable condition is evidenced by its lack of any incident history and the availability of extensive historical documentation and extra parts for repair and maintenance. With a fresh annual check and a recent polish, this aircraft shines both literally and metaphorically.

Technical Specifications and Performance

The Dornier DO-27 B-3 is a six-seater, embodying the perfect blend of historical significance and functional prowess. Its airframe, with a total time of 3680 hours, and a payload capacity of 600kg or 1322lb, showcases its robustness and versatility. The aircraft is powered by a Lycoming GO-480-B1A6 engine, with 1023 hours since major overhaul (SMOH) and a time between overhauls (TBO) of 1400 hours. The engine’s reliability is further assured by the replacement of one cylinder in 2021. The propeller, a HC-82V model, also boasts 212 SMOH and is well within its operational life, with a TBO of 1500 hours and a 5-year Limited Time Allowed (LTA) inspection completed in 2022.

Aviation enthusiasts will appreciate the Dornier’s avionics suite, which includes a Flightcom 4-place intercom, dual Garmin VHF-Nav/GS GNC 255A, a Garmin Mode S Transponder GTX330, and a suite of navigation and communication systems from Bendix King, among others. The aircraft’s capability for various missions is enhanced by its dual controls, large camera holes for aerial photography, and the ability to open the rear door during flight for skydiving operations.

Exterior and Interior Aesthetics

The exterior of the Dornier DO-27 B-3 is just as impressive as its internals, featuring a white paint scheme with blue and red stripes, a red spinner, tail, and wingtips, all coated in ceramic for longevity and recently polished to a near-perfect finish. It proudly wears the original DLR paint scheme, akin to NASA’s, with a tail number visible on the underside of its wings. The interior complements this with grey powder-coated metal and blue fabric seats, striking a balance between classic and modern aesthetics

Additional Features and Auction Details

Potential buyers should note the aircraft’s additional features such as the bench seat for six-passenger operation, photographic windows suitable for various missions, and the inclusion of USB ports for modern convenience. The sale also offers the option to purchase additional parts and the capability for containerized transcontinental transport.

As we approach the auction date, interested parties are encouraged to contact the provided phone number and email to learn more about this remarkable aircraft. With a required deposit of $3,000 and a buyer’s premium of 6%, the acquisition of this Dornier DO-27 B-3 represents not just a transaction, but an investment in a piece of aviation legacy. This warbird, with its well-documented history and sustained market value, offers an unparalleled opportunity to own a durable and economically viable piece of aviation history, perfect for enthusiasts of single-engine piston aircraft, post-WWII warbirds, and those interested in parachute, jump, or aerial photography compatible planes.