DC-3, DC-6 and Short Solent across the Pacific
This plan brings together three ways to cross or approach the Pacific in the early 1950s: NAC in the DC-3, TEAL in the Short Solent flying boat, then BCPA in the DC-6.
The article is compelling because the scale keeps changing. It starts with islands and regional services, then turns into long oceanic legs that make the journey truly transpacific.
Post-war return of major Pacific routes.
Three very different rhythms.
Islands, seaplane bases and long crossings.
Fuel planning is essential.
Understanding the flight
NAC gives the route a more regional first chapter, perfect for feeling island distances before the extreme legs.
TEAL brings flying-boat poetry. BCPA then changes scale with Canton Island, Honolulu, San Francisco and Vancouver.
Before departure
- Prepare each sub-route with the matching aircraft.
- For flying boats, position the aircraft on the water through the simulator map if required.
- Keep realistic fuel reserves around Canton Island, Honolulu and San Francisco.
- Do not merge everything into one session: each of the three moods deserves its own rhythm.
Suggested route
Experience tips
The Pacific should not be compressed. The long legs are part of the experience.
Alternate aircraft: that change of pace is what makes the page come alive.