Hellenic Air Force to Restore C-47A Dakota and a De Havilland DH.82 Tiger Moth
Two legendary aircraft of the Hellenic Air Force are set to fly again, thanks to a newly signed agreement between the Hellenic Air Force General Staff and the nonprofit IKAROS Foundation. The project will see the full restoration of a C-47A Dakota and a De Havilland DH.82 Tiger Moth, with the goal of bringing them back to airworthy condition.
The agreement was signed by Air Force Chief Lieutenant General Dimosthenis Grigoriadis and a representative of the IKAROS Foundation. According to the contract, the aircraft are granted to the foundation free of charge for full restoration and, if technically feasible, reactivation for flight.
The De Havilland DH.82 Tiger Moth, a primary trainer aircraft, was part of a 1947 British aid package from the Royal Air Force. It served in Greece until 1955, recognized for its all-aluminum finish and distinctive Hellenic Air Force markings.
The C-47 Dakota, also known as the “Skytrain,” entered Hellenic service through RAF and later USAF assistance. It played a crucial role in the Korean War with the 13th Transport Squadron and served in multiple roles including troop and VIP transport, aerial photography, and search and rescue. It was officially retired in 2008.
Restoration Plan and Timeline
- The C-47A will begin its restoration in Greece before completion in a specialized facility in the United Kingdom.
- The Tiger Moth will be fully restored in the UK.
- All expenses — restoration, training of two Air Force pilots and two technicians, and return-to-flight certification — will be covered by the IKAROS Foundation.
The four-year contract stipulates that the aircraft will remain in the UK during the final year for test flights and airshow participation under Hellenic Air Force livery. Upon conclusion, the aircraft will return to Greece at no cost.
The Hellenic Air Force expressed deep gratitude to Peter Livanos, President of the IKAROS Foundation, for his vital and selfless contribution to preserving the nation’s aviation history.
Notably, the IKAROS Foundation previously restored a Supermarine Spitfire MJ755 and a T-6 Harvard, both of which took part in the March 25th, 2025 Military Parade in Athens, flying side by side in a powerful tribute to Greece’s aerial heritage.