de Havilland DH.104 Devon (Dove military variant)

Kiwi Aviation 🇳🇿

15 Apr 2026 · © KiwiAviation1

A rare RNZAF de Havilland DH.104 Devon, notable for its Antarctic high-visibility tail, preserved in museum condition.

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Aircraft

DH.104 Devon (Dove military variant) DH104

Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) Antarctic or high-visibility scheme

NZI803

Registration

Airline

Royal New Zealand Air Force

Manufacturer

de Havilland

Gear

iPhone 12 Pro

Achievements

Rare Bird, Vintage Voyager, Livery Legend, Military Maverick

4 badges earned

Location

Christchurch International Airport

CHC/NZCH

-43.4890, 172.5320

Open map

Christchurch International Airport CHC

Airport

Insights

Aviation History

The DH.104 Dove/Devon was a post-WWII British light transport and military liaison aircraft; this RNZAF example is preserved as a historic type used in New Zealand military service and Antarctic missions.

Fleet Rarity

One of a handful of surviving Devon/Dove variants, and one of very few in original RNZAF Antarctic markings.

Record Flights

Not known for record flights but significant for support in remote operations, including Antarctic supply missions.

Safety & Events

No specific notable incidents related to this airframe known; the type served in many Commonwealth air arms with a generally strong safety record.

Future Outlook

Preserved static display in a museum.

Specifications

de Havilland Gipsy Queen 70-3 piston engines

Engine

17.37 meters

Wingspan

12.70 meters

Length

1,700 kilometers

Range

290 km/h

Speed

Up to 11 passengers (military variant typically 6-9 or configured for medical/cargo roles)

Capacity

5,443 kilograms

MTOW

4.11 meters

Height

Each engine produces approximately 400 hp (298 kW)

Thrust

Not applicable (pre-ICAO noise certification era)

Noise