Any old PNG hands out there ? [Archive]

Meggles

3rd Dec 2021, 01:27

I worked as cabin crew for TAA in the 60's and need some info regarding several highland strips. One in particular was tricky I believe it was Wabag ? Also we used to buzz one of the strips so that golfers had time to clear off. Minj or Banz ? Flying in DC3's which were my favourite aircraft - one in particular was unlined and had sidesaddle seating. Not the most comfy and very cold. My memory is not as good as it should be. Would be grateful for any replies ! M

dbr36

6th Dec 2021, 23:12

TAA in TPNG.
I was posted to Lae as a sprog DC3 F/O ex TAA Melbourne in October 1961.

What an absolutely magnificent opportunity to learn "which way is up" in the world of aviation for more than a few budding aviators - & I guess the latter was valid for many of us over quite a few decades?
Some failed to observe the "Cadbury chocolates" edict & sadly are no longer with us!

Was initially domiciled in the Lae TAA 'mess' - a bit of a social awakening for a relatively naive SA country bumpkin - however it certainly was a first class introduction to TPNG.

Hi Meg; the Sunbird aircraft - unlike the unlined freight/general purpose C47/DC3s - were built for relative comfort rather than the efficacy of the latter - young ladies akin to yourself were considered to be among the truly dedicated of that period?
Tricky strips - there were more than a few - Wau was among the more formidable for DC3 ops - even the RAAF managed to leave the remnants of a C47 there? Perhaps it remains down the side to this day???

I'm certain that there are survivors of that era who will be pleased to contribute to your "ANY OLD 'PNG' HANDS" plea, I shall eagerly look forward to same! (as a doddery 85yo barry rerecich.)
PS. (A side note for those whom may have served in later years; it was pre the era of the UN declaration of 'universal' access to alcohol - hence the subject of law & order was pretty low key.)