Flying with Florida Air Cargo: A Journey Back in Time with the Legendary DC-3

​There are few flying experiences as unique and unforgettable as stepping aboard a Douglas DC-3, especially one still working hard in modern aviation. Florida Air Cargo is one of the last remaining operators flying these historic aircraft in oceanic cargo deliveries, and I had the incredible opportunity to join them on a trip to the Bahamas.
The Legacy of Florida Air CargoFlorida Air Cargo has built a reputation as one of the top air freight companies in Florida, and much of its success can be attributed to its exceptional leadership. At the helm is Sergio R. Alen, a man whose life has been deeply rooted in aviation. Sergio began his professional aviation career in 1978 as a certified Airframe and Powerplant mechanic at Miami Aviation Corporation. Over the years, he has done it all—from annual inspections and aircraft modifications to quality control and progressive inspection programs. With more than 30 years of experience, Sergio has shaped Florida Air Cargo into a company that blends history, passion, and operational excellence.
What makes these flights even more special is the history behind the aircraft themselves. Some of the DC-3s in Florida Air Cargo’s fleet have direct ties to World War II, including D-Day operations. They carry the scars of their past, and yet they continue to serve a vital role today, proving the resilience of their design and the dedication of the people who keep them flying.

​Flying with Legends: My adventure with Florida Air Cargo took me across the ocean to the Bahamas alongside veteran chief pilot Keith Kearns and first officer Carlos Azcuy. Keith alone has over 5,000 hours in the DC-3, making him one of the most experienced pilots flying these aircraft today. From the moment I met them, it was clear that I was in the presence of true professionals who were eager to share their knowledge.
Keith took me under his wing, guiding me through every step of the process—pre-flighting the aircraft, understanding its operations, and experiencing its unique flight characteristics. The enthusiasm and camaraderie of the crew made the experience even more meaningful. There was a shared sense of purpose: this was more than just another flight; it was a continuation of a legacy.

The Flight: A Symphony of Radials and a View of Paradise Flying the DC-3 across the ocean was an experience I’ll never forget. As we climbed through the clouds, the deep, rhythmic roar of the Pratt & Whitney R-1830 Twin Wasp radials filled the cockpit—a sound that has carried pilots through the skies for over eight decades. The aircraft has a soul of its own, and flying it through adverse weather conditions only deepened my appreciation for its rugged reliability.
The cargo we were hauling was vital to the people of the Bahamas, adding another layer of meaning to the journey. As we descended, the ocean transformed into a breathtaking palette of vibrant blues, signaling our approach to Nassau. The final moments of the flight were mesmerizing, watching the crew expertly work the controls, bringing the aircraft in for a smooth landing on the island’s runway.

More Than Just a Flight: Spending the day with the Florida Air Cargo crew was special in ways that go beyond just flying. They welcomed me as one of their own, sharing their stories, their passion for aviation, and their deep respect for the DC-3. It was an immersive experience, giving me insight into the teamwork and dedication required to keep these legendary aircraft in the air.
Flying with Florida Air Cargo wasn’t just about the journey—it was about preserving a piece of aviation history. The DC-3 is more than an aircraft; it’s a symbol of resilience, adventure, and timeless craftsmanship. To have had the chance to be part of that, even for just one flight, is a memory that will stay with me forever.