1985.03.TARPA_TOPICS

Page 45

We received several replies to our request for information about a DC-3 operation in Cairo. From Bud Elliot: Regarding the article in the December issue of TARPA TOPICS about the DC-3 in North Africa, perhaps I can help answer your question. Twice while I was based in Rome I was a co-pilot on a DC-3 engine carrier. The first flight was January 21, 1948 from Rome to Geneva. The plane was NC 204, TWA plane number 548. The Captain was Stanley Stanton. On the last leg we were vectored to the airport by GCA. We were IFR and we encountered a lot of ice. It was an unforgettable experience. The second flight was February 24, 1948 from Rome to the Milan area. We had a CAA man on board. The purpose of the Flight was to meet with the Milan City engineers to establish the airport. I don't know of any other TWA DC-3's around at that time, but perhaps some of the crews that were based in Cairo may remember the plane. * * * * * * * * * Dean Phillips also forwards a note from Idus Inglis which Idus sent in along with his 1985 dues. "DC-3 on International? Yes. Cairo and Tel Aviv.

TWA had one and flew it between

"I flew co-pilot on it with Captain Joe Park. Joe was upset because he was assigned to fly it. I questioned my assignment because I had never been to school or even sat in a DC-3. "Bob Cummings, the Chief Pilot at that time, said to both of us, 'Shut up and take the trip'. We did. "Cairo and Tel Aviv were both British Empire at that time. We flew a shuttle between the two cities in a TWA DC-3". Idus didn't shed any light on who the TWA crew was that sighted and gave aid to the downed British aircraft. * * * * * * * * * * * * Another letter just received was from Bill Greer who wrote:

TARPA TALES

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