Built in 1944 as a Douglas C-47A Skytrain, N33VW is a tribute to one of the most famous troop carrier aircraft of World War II – The Wabbit Expwess.
While this aircraft is not the original Wabbit, it proudly carries the nose art and markings of the wartime transport that flew American paratroopers into Normandy on D-Day, June 6, 1944. Restored to honor the crews and airborne soldiers who participated in that historic mission, The Wabbit Expwess serves as a living memorial, preserving the legacy of the C-47 and the Greatest Generation through flight.
WABBIT EXPWESS PHOTO GALLERY
THE PURPOSE BEHIND OUR PLANE
The Wabbit Expwess was acquired by Pete Kourtis of Kourtis Vintage Aviation in honor of his uncle, Pete Kourtis, for whom he was named. During World War II, Pete served as a Navy flight instructor at Pearl Harbor for the duration of the war and flew the Grumman J2F Duck, a rugged amphibious biplane designed for both land and water operations. On December 7, 1941, Pete was present during the attack on Pearl Harbor but was attending a church service off-base at the time—a circumstance that likely spared his life.
Today, Kourtis Vintage Aviation is committed to honoring the men and women who served by faithfully restoring, preserving, and flying the historic aircraft that helped win the war, ensuring their legacy continues to inspire future generations.
WABBIT EXPWESS OWNERSHIP HISTORY
Construction completed at Douglas Aircraft, Long Beach, California. Delivered to the United States Army Air Force; assigned serial 43-15935. Based at Oahu, Hawaii, then Manila, Philippines
Metropolitan Mooney, Teterboro, New Jersey; J.C. Bowman, Greenville, South Carolina; Inor Corporation. Reregistered as N3BA.
