Find aircraft background, systems descriptions and manuals for the aircraft you are researching. Each note keeps its source and version context close by.
Simulator manuals describe the developer’s implementation. Aircraft background is research-based; pilot accounts describe an individual’s experience. Coverage here is limited to the selected notes and linked resources, not the full contents of every manual.
DC-3 · Microsoft Flight Simulator · MSFS 2024
Automatic start can leave a manual reset to do
The manual explains that automatic start changes fuel and engine-control states. Returning to manual operation requires resetting the relevant controls. After automatic shutdown, displayed switch positions may no longer match the simulated state; resetting them or reloading the aircraft restores the intended starting setup.
Gathered MSFS operations manual · PDF p.2
DC-3 · Microsoft Flight Simulator · MSFS 2024
Open up the panel view and check the represented fuel system
Clicking the pedestal toggles the yokes to make the cockpit easier to inspect. The manual also states that additional cabin ferry-fuel tanks are not included in this simulation, a useful distinction from long-distance delivery aircraft described in real-world accounts.
Gathered MSFS operations manual · PDF pp.3–4
DC-3 · Microsoft Flight Simulator · MSFS 2024
Choose a period or modernised cockpit
The DC-3 guide describes trim tabs and hydraulically operated auxiliary systems. It also offers a vintage Sperry installation or a modern GNS/autopilot configuration. Those choices represent different cockpit equipment, making the selected version important when looking up navigation or automation controls.
Archived simulator manual; installed package revision not observed · PDF pp.5-6,10
DC-3 · Microsoft Flight Simulator · MSFS 2020
Automatic start can leave a manual reset to do
The manual explains that automatic start changes fuel and engine-control states. Returning to manual operation requires resetting the relevant controls. After automatic shutdown, displayed switch positions may no longer match the simulated state; resetting them or reloading the aircraft restores the intended starting setup.
Gathered MSFS operations manual · PDF p.2
DC-3 · Microsoft Flight Simulator · MSFS 2020
Open up the panel view and check the represented fuel system
Clicking the pedestal toggles the yokes to make the cockpit easier to inspect. The manual also states that additional cabin ferry-fuel tanks are not included in this simulation, a useful distinction from long-distance delivery aircraft described in real-world accounts.
Gathered MSFS operations manual · PDF pp.3–4
DC-3 · Microsoft Flight Simulator · MSFS 2020
Choose a period or modernised cockpit
The DC-3 guide describes trim tabs and hydraulically operated auxiliary systems. It also offers a vintage Sperry installation or a modern GNS/autopilot configuration. Those choices represent different cockpit equipment, making the selected version important when looking up navigation or automation controls.
Archived simulator manual; installed package revision not observed · PDF pp.5-6,10
DC-3C Airliner · VSKYLABS · X-Plane 12
Released product and variants
The DC-3C is a modernised civilian development based on a C-47A. VSKYLABS equips it with G1000-based avionics, a matching autopilot and a passenger cabin; the military C-47B is sold separately.
Official developer / designated-store reference · checked 2026-09-14
Douglas DC-3
The DC-3 developed from Douglas's earlier DC-2 and sleeper-transport work. Its low-wing metal airframe, retractable main gear and two radial engines became a familiar sight on airline routes. Military derivatives expanded the design's influence during the Second World War.
Civilian survivors have carried passengers and freight with a wide range of later equipment. In simulation, a vintage cockpit with a Sperry system and a modernised navigation installation are different interpretations of that long life. Their manuals explain which period and equipment the virtual aircraft represents.
Aircraft / family
Flying the DC-3
Barry Schiff · 5 June 1994
DC-3 ferry flight from Kabul
Jack Lamb · retrospective account; chronology conflicts
Bill Robbins and the Hay Bales
Randy L. Sohn · 1999 recollection of a 1961 flight
DC-6 · PMDG · MSFS 2020 · MSFS 2024
One package now covers both MSFS generations
PMDG’s product page describes the May 2026 update bringing its MSFS 2020 DC-6 to MSFS 2024. The package includes both DC-6A and DC-6B models. Older manuals remain useful, but their interface descriptions should be read alongside the product’s later update information.
Gathered PMDG product page · May 2026 update statement
