AA Models – 7246 – Douglas DC-3 Conroy Thri-Turbo-Three

Description:

The Douglas DC-3 Conroy Tri-Turbo-Three was a unique and ambitious modification of the classic DC-3, carried out by aircraft innovator John Conroy in the late 1960s. Conroy was well-known for transforming existing airframes into specialized transport aircraft, and with the Tri-Turbo-Three he aimed to modernize the aging DC-3 by replacing its two radial piston engines with three Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A turboprop engines—two mounted on the wings and a third fitted in the aircraft’s nose.

The goal was to significantly improve performance, fuel efficiency, and reliability, while giving the DC-3 new operational capabilities in a jet-age world. The third engine provided better short takeoff performance and improved single-engine safety margins, although it also altered the aircraft’s aerodynamics and appearance, giving it a distinctive and slightly unusual look.

Only one Tri-Turbo-Three was ever built, as the modification did not achieve commercial success either certification. The cost of the conversion and the availability of newer turboprop aircraft limited its appeal. Nevertheless, the prototype flew successfully and demonstrated improved performance compared to the standard DC-3, but it remained a one-off project, remembered today as an example of Conroy’s creative approach to aircraft design.

It’s stated that the DC-3 Conroy was able to keep in flight with any engine configuration, including only the center line engine.

Based on A&A Models – 7242 – Basler BT-67 released in 2024, but upgraded with many new parts, as differences between the DC-3 and the Basler BT-67 are important.

Kit include decal sheet with two markings, one for the Polair (Basler Turbo Conversions name, based in Oshkosh, Wisconsin) and one for the U.S. Navy, a maritime patrol and search and rescue aircraft dated in the 80s and based in Alaska. Both markings certainly belongs to the same aircraft, as only one conversion of this type was created by Basler Turbo Conversions and briefly used the U.S. Navy. During its service in Alaska the DC-3 Conroy was fitted with skies.