Formerly VH-DMV before the change in DCA registration policy, DCA DC-3 VH-CAO was built as a C-47A (c/n 14050). The aircraft saw war service with the USAAF as 43-48234, having previously had the RAF identity KG818. It was acquired by DCA in Manila from the US government in March 1947 and refurbished as an airways survey aircraft by Butler Air Transport, Mascot. It was based at Melbourne/Essendon throughout its career.

The photo above shows VH-CAO at Essendon in 1954 in the 'intermediate' colour scheme of polished metal/silver dope overall with light blue and white stripes on fuselage and fin. Note DCA's Flying Unit badge on the fin (see below for a close up) and also on the nose, just peeking above the engine cowling.