People will get the chance to fly back in time in a classic Douglas DC3 and experience a piece of nostalgia and adventure that pays homage to a part of World War II history on March 30.

Fly DC3 New Zealand's aircraft is based at Ardmore Airport in Auckland and will be one of the ways people can take to the skies at the Rotorua International Airport and BayTrust Rescue Helicopter joint Open Day.

The Douglas DC3 that will be visiting Rotorua Airport during the Open Day on March 30.

The Open Day also recognises Rotorua Airport's 50 year anniversary.

The fixed-wing propeller DC3 planes were revolutionary in aviation history in the 1930s and 40s, and played a significant role in WWII efforts.

The very aircraft that will be at the open day served in WWII in the US Army Air Force, as well as the Korean War.

The totally re-furbished retro aircraft gives people the opportunity to sample its rich history with scenic and charter flights throughout the North Island in particular.

Fly DC3 airline administrator and part-owner, Jessica Cooper, says they are excited about supporting Rotorua and recognising the Airport's significant 50-year milestone.

'We have been to Rotorua many times before and the people there are always so positive and supportive of aviation.

'Our classic, retro airliner offers a real novelty for people to fly back in time to the 1950s and 60s. Passengers used to really dress up in hats, coats and gloves, to go flying and it was an exciting thing to do.”

She say the scenic flight transports people back to that era and gives them the opportunity get an amazing view from the air over their own home town – something they may otherwise never have the chance to do.”

At the Open Day, three flights will be available for paid scenic tours that will travel around the skies of Rotorua and the surrounding region.

'The plane will fly low and slow at 1000 feet, which will give people the perfect opportunity to appreciate the scenery.”

A charter flight from Ardmore is also available, with people able to fly to Rotorua, experience the Open Day activities and then fly back to Ardmore at day's end.

Jessica says this will be perfect for those who have friends and family in Auckland, to travel down to Rotorua and meet up at the airport for a few hours.

The Open Day will be from 11am to 3pm on Sunday, March 30, with attendees asked to make a gold coin donation upon entry to the BayTrust Rescue Helicopter and Blue Light charities.

Limited free parking is available on-site at the airport and a free bus will be running from the Rotorua Convention Centre to the Airport every half hour, from 11am.

For more information on the DC3 flights or to pre-book seats available, go to www.flydc3.co.nz