In 1981 motorists were treated to a truly spectacular site as the Legendary Kanana made a rather unusual journey by land from Essendon Airport to her new home at Tullamarine to begin what would be the first of many restoration programs. With her wings removed, Kanana made the hour-long journey down the Tullamarine Freeway flanked…

The restoration of Kanana went according to plan and in April 2017, approximately two years into the restoration effort, it became time to start the fully rebuilt engines for the first time. Under the careful watch of all staff and volunteers from MAP and AHAS, Kanana began to show signs of life. With propellers slowly…

In February 2015 an agreement was formalised between Paul Little, owner of Melbourne Aviation Precinct (MAP) – soon to be rebranded Melbourne Jet Base – and the R.M. Ansett Historical Aircraft Society (AHAS) to transfer ownership of Kanana, their 80-year-old Douglas DC-3, across to its new owner. The agreement was predicated on the understanding that…

Check out this great footage captured by Schony747 on April 12th 2018. Kanana was flying into Melbourne Airport. Ansett Airlines Douglas DC3 (VH-ABR) Landing at Melbourne Airport from Little Group on Vimeo.

A few years ago, in an effort instigated by Paul Little’s Melbourne Aviation Precinct (MAP) and the R.M. Ansett Historical Aircraft Society, an extensive restoration program was launched to restore an iconic Douglas DC-3 aircraft its former glory. This aircraft, with a long and eventful history, is called Kanana. Built in 1938 in California, Kanana…

Following a short break at the end of the year, the Kanana restoration team is back at the helm – ensuring the finishing touches are completed on the aircraft before her relaunch into the sky. Some the greatest achievements since the previous update include: 1. Interior flooring installed The interior floor has been installed, with…

The restoration team made exceptional progress returning Kanana back to its former glory throughout the month of November. Looking ahead, the team is gearing up to deliver the final touches over the coming months. Some of November’s greatest achievements include: 1. Elevators, Rudder & Ailerons installed and rigged At the back of the aircraft, the…

We are very excited to announce the launch of our new website for Kanana! The new website was created to help preserve and promote the legacy of the aircraft. Visitors will be able to get the latest news and updates on the restoration project, view a historical timeline and photo gallery that showcase the history…