The Douglas DC-3 Dakota revolutionised air transport in the 1930s and 1940s. Because of its lasting impact on the airline industry - and in particular the part it played in the Second World War - the `Dak' is widely regarded as one of the most significant transport aircraft ever built. Using the RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight's ZA947 as its centrepiece, this Haynes Manual describes the Dakota's rugged anatomy and examines its operation from the viewpoints of its owners, aircrew and engineers.