The sun is about to rise over the Chugach mountains and a Northern Air Cargo DC-6 waits to be loaded with freight for another days work.

Northern Air Cargo used to operate the largest fleet of DC-6 aircraft in the world. When the company was sold Saltchuk Resources in 2006, the decision was made to update the companies fleet and phase out the DC-6.

Today the honor of the largest fleet of operational DC-6 aircraft goes to Evertts Air Cargo based on the other side of the Anchorage Airport.

Propeller driven aircraft are very much in use in Alaska and there are many rare and unique models that are still in service up here.

Many an aviation buff travels up here to see these aircraft fly once more. Many of these aircraft are over 50 years old and got their start in service to the military. While they are considered relics in other parts of the world, their abilities to carry large loads and use short primitive runways make them perfect for use in Alaska.