Old time PNG pilot? - VH-GKI has flipped over today in New Zealand
 

Cessna C185A, VH-GKI, flew to New Zealand the other day and has been reported as having flipped over on landing, badly damaged.

I imagine this airframe could tell some good stories from years gone by ?? … old PNG pilot's would remember the rego well no doubt.

Not the first time for the old girl.

https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/pprune....66fa4180e7.jpg

She will heal and fly again!

Is Val Quinnel in that photo, Tailwheel?

GKI
 

Looks like GH to me. Could be Kundiawa circa later 60s. I did my first TAL flight in her Gka to Usino late 60s with doors off and a 3 blade 206 prop on floor and out into the airstream to salvage a CM damaged 206 . P. A. Subsequently groundlooped her in Madang and when Sir Denis entered parliament the late G. Henry flew him around the EHD for weeks lobbying. It had been overhauled and painted prior, and was in pristine condition. She will live another day.

Horatio. No idea. Don't recall the name. The photo would be pre 1974 as it is still in Talair colours with squashed cockroach on the tail.

Sundaun. Don't recall the accident or location but I don't think that looks like Chimbu/Kundiawa.

VH-GKI again. Facing the camera is Police Inspector Graham Breman, back on pilot Gary Honour. Photo would be taken between late 1965 to 1968 when the name "Territory Airlines" was painted on the doors only.

https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/pprune....d7e8245b38.jpg

Poor thing, had more lives than a village tom cat! :}

Wonenara EHP

The good old days!
The photo tells a story …. PNG Government WAKE UP!
PNG Police Officers in smart uniforms, well maintained or manicured airstrip; pre 1975 pride!

See here: https://www.stuff.co.nz/nelson-mail/...ash-in-motueka

Sad to see.

https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/pprune....2fd98c1b87.jpg

Sterile cockpit theory...