The DC-3 introduced new levels of speed, comfort, and range introduced some basic features of modern commercial aviation as autopilot, full duplication of cockpit controls and indicators, as well as the exterior and interior lighting needed for night flights. The structure and coating were metallic, had landing gear that would retract into the engine nacelles and could maintain the control during takeoff with a single engine, , even could be screened in-flight movies being the most luxurious aircraft in the world. The design of the DC-3 was so perfect that it made all other contemporary commercial airplanes obsolete.
The twin-engine DC-3A was optional powered by two Pratt & Whitney twin-row Wasps SBG types 14-cylinder radial engines, or two radial engine Wright Cyclones G series 9 cylinder, single-row, air-cooled radial engine. Pratt & Whitney develops 850 hp. either one with 950 hp. available for take-off. The Cyclone G5 develops 800 hp.
This multi-spar wing had 95 ft. of wing-span; a length of 65 ft., with an empty weight of 15,750 pounds was designed for a useful load of 9,155 pounds. Its maximum speed at critical altitude was 216 mph. and the cruising speed was 184 mph. with a maximum range of 2,150 miles. Its landing speed was 65 mph. Depending on its motorization, had between 22,100 and 24,100 ft. as a service ceiling (two engines).