This photo probably shows DCA Auster J.5 Autocrat VH-CAM (c/n 2883) at Jackson's Airport, Port Moresby, New Guinea. After initial use in Melbourne from 1949, VH-CAM was allocated to DCA's Papua New Guinea Region where it was based at Port Moresby. It flew on DCA duties for only two years until it crashed during a forced landing off Port Moresby harbour on 5 December 1951.

The aircraft carries the DCA Flying Unit logo on the fin and on the original print the type-name 'Autocrat' can be read above it. The antenna strung between the wing and the fin suggests that, unusually for an Auster, the aircraft was fitted with HF radio, which would have been a useful equipment addition in New Guinea.

Note the RAAF Mosquito in the background - possibly an Australian-built PR.41 version being used for photo survey work.

(Photo: CAHS collection via Mac Job)

Back to the main Departmental Aircraft index

If this page appears without menu bars at top and left, click here