Last updated 22 August 2022
WWII AUSTRALIAN TRANSPORT AIRCRAFT RADIO CALLSIGNS
Part 1: VHCAA to VHCZZ

Compiled by Geoff Goodall

Paratroops board USAAF Douglas C-47A 42-23589 callsign VHCGK during the New Guinea campaign.     
Photo: Australian War Memorial 180944

           In the dark early days of the Pacific Theatre of World War II, Japan had made stunning advances to take Malaya, Singapore, Philippines and Netherlands East Indies. A handful of US Army Air Corps aircraft from Philippines escaped to Australia ahead of the enemy advance, and Dutch military and airline aircraft made desperate evacuation flights from NEI to Australia, often carrying wounded personnel and civilians. Most Australian airline Douglas transports were requisitioned by the RAAF for periods for the war effort.
          From January 1942 Japan attacked and carried out landings in New Guinea, which was then administered by Australia. Darwin and Broome suffered catastrophic air raids. The war was on Australia's doorstep.  Repelling the Japanese forces in New Guinea was seen as essential to stop it being used as a springboard to invade Australia. With huge distances between Australia's southern cities and New Guinea, air transport was a top priority for the early echelons of the US 5th Army which was sent to assist Australia in the New Guinea Campaign, which would continue for the next three years.
          US Army General Douglas MacArthur was appointed Supreme Commander Allied Forces Southwest Pacific Area and ordered by US President Roosevelt to leave the US forces under his command in the Philippines. MacArthur, his closest aids and family were secretly flown to Australia in March 1942, reaching Melbourne 17 March.  His initial General Head Quarters was then established in Melbourne.

          In early 1942 the ad hoc arrangements for air transport to carry urgent military supplies and personnel to northern Australia and New Guinea were unable to cope with the mix of civilian and military pilots flying a collection of available aircraft.
- Ex Philippines USAAC transports and bombers, some fitted with side-saddle seating as personnel transports
- Ex NEI Dutch military aircraft taken over by USAAC in Australia 28 March 1942
- Ex NEI KNILM airliners: 10 aircraft (DC-2s, DC-3s, DC-5s, Lockheed 14s) taken over by USAAC in Australia 18 May 1942
- RAAF transport aircraft
- Australian airline aircraft requisitioned as required

          The Dutch KNILM civilian aircrew in Australia had been flying long hours on contract to USAAC. They were incensed to hear their airline management, safely escaped to New York, had agreed to hand over their aircraft to the Americans. Under the terms of the contract all aircraft had to be test flown before hand-over.  The KNILM maintenance crews agreed to have all aircraft ready for a simultaneous  test flight.  Thus all 10 aircraft were in the air together over Sydney Harbour on 14 May 1942 in a protest formation.  The Dutch destroyer ‘Tromp’, at the Woolloomooloo wharf was buzzed by several of the aircraft.  Three aircraft then flew under the Sydney Harbour Bridge; once in each direction.  The formation was led by Captain Frans Van Breemen in DC-2 PK-AFK, followed by Capt. Peter Deenik in DC-3 PK-ALW, and Capt. Dirk Rab with John Gyzemyter as Flight Engineer in DC-5 PK-ADC.

Directorate of Air Transport
            Since January 1942 a USAAF unit Air Transport Command based Brisbane had coordinated US transport aircraft in Australia. During May-June 1942  a new 5th Air Force organisation was created, named Directorate of Air Transport, Allied Air Forces, South West Pacific Area (often referred to as Allied Directorate of Air Transport).  DAT was to combine all air transport resources under a single directorate, including all available pilots and mechanics, aircraft maintenance and freight loading facilities. USAAC General George Brett, Commander of Allied Air Forces SWPA made a controversial appointment of Australian civilian Harold C. Gatty as the first Director of DAT. 
           Gatty was a Tasmanian inventor who moved his family to USA in 1927 and developed a series of devices and techniques to aid aerial navigation. He was famous as the navigator on Wiley Post's 1931 around the world record flight in Lockheed Vega Winny Mae. Gatty later joined Pan American Airways to create air routes for services across the Pacific Ocean to Australia and NZ. He became a personal friend to Juan Tripp, president of Pan Am, who sent him to Australia to lobby the Government to grant Pan Am post-war airline rights from Australia to North America. General Brett insisted that Gatty be appointed at a high RAAF rank commensurate with his new role.
           Assistant Director and Manager of Operations was American Major Gerald L. Cherymisin, a former USAAC pilot who had extensive pre-war airline flying experience in China, South America and Netherlands East Indies. He made an evacuation flight from Andir to Port Hedland WA in a damaged abandoned B-17, carrying civilian refugees.

           Thus Group Captain Gatty moved into the DAT office at Victoria Barracks, Melbourne to take over command of all allied air transport. Brett's choices were good and DAT is recognised as having created an effective air transport organisation which successfully supplied the New Guinea Campaign. In May 1943 Gatty returned to Washington DC to the US Navy tasked with developing polar navigation techniques. After the war he moved to Fiji, set up a commercial fishing business and established Fiji Airways.
(Compiler's note: one can only imagine the chagrin of career RAAF HQ senior command officers and Department of Defence chiefs also housed at Victoria Barracks to being directed on the deployment of their aircraft from an Australian civilian with an American accent in an office down the corridor.)

The radio callsign aircraft identification system

            DAT implemented a single identification system for its aircraft from various origins, and VHCxx series radio callsigns were selected.
            Just why and how this came about is lost to time. In addition to a standardised identification system, it may have been a tactical measure to disguise military support movements as being Australian civil aircraft - Japanese radio monitoring was expected to pick up aircraft morse-code transmissions a well as DCA Aeradio aircraft movement messages on long-range HF frequencies. Fifty years of searching Government files at National Archives of Australia have failed to produce any record of the policy or implementation of the system, instructions to squadrons in the field, allocation of the callsigns, or requirements for their display on aircraft. Similarly nothing has been located at RAAF Historical Section. The Department of Civil Aviation must have had a role in assigning the VHC range, which was well ahead of the civil aircraft registration sequential allocation which had reached the early VH-A..s by 1942.  it is logical to assume that when requested to release a VH- block, DCA officials skipped VH-B.. series to allow for future civil aircraft and nominated VH-CAA to CZZ for use as military callsigns. The listings below are based on squadron diaries, RAAF aircraft record cards, pilot log books and wartime photographs, where the VHC callsigns are an accepted fact. No listing of allocated callsigns at a particular date has ever been located, yet they must have existed.
     
            These were NOT civil registrations. No DCA Certificates of Registration were issued. They were not entered in the Australian Civil Aircraft Register ledger at DCA HQ in Melbourne. When the VHC.. callsign series was almost fully allocated, the VHD.. series was used for some RAAF C-47s before being abandoned and transport callsign allocations jumped to VHR.. series. Similarly no explanation has been found in official wartime records.

            This daily DAT aircraft status sheet for 29 July 1942 shows the early days before large numbers of USAAF C-47s began arriving in
Australia to bolster the transport fleet. No other daily sheets have been found, so this is one of the few primary research sources quoting iddentities for callsigns.   Abbreviations are believed to be: P.M.=Port Moresby,  Arc=Archerfield,  Tvl=Townsville,  Mst=Mascot (Sydney),  Adl=Adelaide,
Ess=Essendon (Melbourne),  Cns=Cairns,  Chrvl=Charleville,  Chr Trs=Charters Towers, Canb=Canberra.

               During October 1942 Gatty negotiated a contract with three Australian airline companies to take over certain DAT aircraft which they would operate on military work on contract to DAT.  Australian National Airways, Qantas Empire Airways and Guinea Airways were leased a variety of types which they were to maintain in their own workshops and operate as military transports with cargo or passenger loadings and destinations at DAT direction. The aircraft would be flown by the airline's own Captains, with a copilot supplied by DAT, initially USAAC pilots to gain experence in long distance transport flying techniques, and later RAAF copilots.
             The airlines were pleased to have the work during lean times of reduced civil services, enabling them to utilise their remaining civil aircrew and maintenance organisations. Refer to the "X series CofAs" table at the end of these listings.


DAT transports were also used as "bully beef bombers", dropping supplies and ammunition to allied troops in
mountainous inaccessable areas of New Guinea.  A USAAF Douglas makes a supply drop in September 1942.
It has a VH callsign painted on the tail but it is not readable.            Photo: Civil Aviation Historical Society

Callsigns system discontinued by USAAF
              DAT was officially disbanded on 3 October 1944. The DAT contracts with Australian airlines were continued by USAAF in Australia.  US 5th Air Force dropped the VHC callsigns system for its own transport aircraft, replacing it with Field Numbers painted behind the cockpits. However USAAF aircraft operated by Australian airlines maintained their callsigns in addition to Field Numbers, the latter in most cases being linked to that aircraft's identity (c/n or serial).  
             The Royal Australian Air Force continued with the external display of VHC.. callsigns and expanded to the VHR.. series.  Whether RAAF HQ was aware that the Americans had dropped the callsign system is unclear, but it remained in force on RAAF transport aircraft until 1947 when officially discontinued by RAAF HQ Order 1164 effective 1 May 1947.
       
              During 1945 the main mission for the Australian airline-operated transports was operating a military courier service between Brisbane and Philippines, via airfields in New Guinea and Borneo en route, carrying supplies and personnel . This extract from ANA pilot Jim Brampton's log book shows a typical ANA aircrew's return trip to Manila in December 1945, changing aircraft along the route:
1-2.12      C-50 CDK depart Brisbane
3.12         C-49 CDB
4-5.12      C-49 CDD
6.12         C-49 CDG arrive Manila
15.12       C-49 CDD depart Manila southbound
16-17.12  C-50 CDJ
18-19.12  C-49 CDE
21.12       C-49 CDD arrive Brisbane
             
             The final USAAF airline contracts required QEA and ANA to continue operating loaned USAAF Douglas transports on courier services between Australia and Manila from January 1946 to April 1946 when the aircraft were returned to USAAF in Manila.   The following letter from ANA to DCA dated Christmas Eve 1945 confirms the arrangements for this last USAAF courier contract and the purchase by the airline of the previously leased Dougas transports to be converted for civilian airline services.  It effectively highlights the difference between the radio callsigns identification and Australian civil aircraft registrations:


            The Royal Australian Air Force and Royal Netherlands East Indies Air Force continued with the external display of VHC.. and later VHR.. callsigns. Whether RAAF HQ was aware that the Americans had dropped the callsign system is unclear, but it remained in force on RAAF transport aircraft until 1947 when officially discontinued by RAAF HQ Order 1164 effective 1 May 1947. (See Part 2)
Abreviations used in the listings below:
ANA             Australian National Airways Pty Ltd, Melbourne
GAL             Guinea Airways Ltd, Adelaide
KNILM         Koninklijke Nederlandsch-Indische Luchtvaart Maatschappij (Royal Dutch Indies Airways)
ML-KNIL      Royal Netherlands East Indies Army Air Force - Militaire Luchtvaart van het Koninklijk Nederlands-Indisch Leger
QEA            Qantas Empire Airways Ltd, Sydney
RAAF          Royal Australian Air Force
USAAC        US Army Air Corps  (became USAAF March 1942)*
USAAF        US Army Air Forces  (became US Air Force in 1947)
log:              log book entry, pilot or passenger

*Interestingly the majority of Australian wartime official documentation references to US air force used the terms "USAAC" or "Air Corps"as late as 1944.

In the following listing, known accidents or fates during the WWII period are given. In general, no fate indicates the aircraft survived the South West Pacifc Pacific Theatre to be routinely redeployed or selected for post-war civil disposal action. From 1944 USAAF C-47s in Australia were returned to the United States while the majority of those remaining in SWPA by the end of 1945 were ferried to Clark Field, Philippines for disposal by the US Foreign Liquidation Commission, Manila.
Transfers between various USAAF transport squadrons are beyond the scope of this listing. DAT aircraft were operated by various USAAF Troop Carrier squadrons of 317th, 374th, 375th and 433rd Troop Carrier Groups.
In the interests of presentation I have resisted the temptation to expand each aircraft's subsequent disposal and post-war civilian history.

I do not claim the following to be complete.  Feed-back, corrections or additions are most welcome.
But changes must have a reference, rather than just a discrepancy with another compiled listing.


VHCAA-VHCAZ: all former ML-KNIL Lodestars which escaped Netherlands East Indies 3.42 to be taken over by USAAC in Australia
CAA
Lockheed L18 Lodestar
2102
LT907
to QEA 11.42, retired Archerfield 5.45
CAB
Lockheed L18 Lodestar2103
LT908
to QEA 12.42 struck mountain Port Moresby 26.11.43 (15 killed)
CAC
Lockheed L18 Lodestar2104
LT909
to Guinea AW 11.42, starboard gear collapsed Popendetta New Guinea 4.12.42, ran off runway Tennant Creek NT 20.1.44,
damaged Oodnadatta SA 3.1.45, returned to USAAF Eagle Farm 10.45
CAD
Lockheed L18 Lodestar2109
LT914
lost without trace on flight from Essendon 14.7.42
CAE
Lockheed L18 Lodestar2120
LT916
crashed Archerfield Qld 11.10.42
CAF
Lockheed L18 Lodestar2121
LT917
to ANA 6.43, to QEA 12.43, to USAAF Archerfield 5.44
CAG
Lockheed L18 Lodestar2123
LT919
destroyed on ground by Japanese air raid Seven Mile Drome,
Port Moresby 17.8.42
CAH
Lockheed L18 Lodestar2125
LT921
to ANA 11.42, crashed landing Dobodura, New Guinea while under attack by Japanese aircraft 30.11.42
CAI
Lockheed L18 Lodestar2127
LT923
destroyed on ground by Japanese air raid Seven Mile Drome,
Port Moresby 17.8.42
CAJ
Lockheed L18 Lodestar2128
LT924
to ANA 11.42, crashed landing Townsville 26.2.43 written off
CAK
Lockheed L18 Lodestar2129
LT925
to QEA 11.42, QEA Captain Orm Denny flew 22 supply runs Port Moresby-Dobodura-Popendetta in CAK 21-22.11.42,
accident Bundaberg Qld 15.5.44, returned to USAAF 15.5.44


Netherlands East Indies Army Air Force Lodestars made evacuation flights to Australia ahead of the
Japanese advance. Dutch refugee aircraft were taken over by the USAAC in Australia
LT923 seen at Maylands Aerodrome, Perth WA in March 1942 became VHCAI.    Geoff Goodall collection


Qantas Empire Airways Lodestar VHCAA at Port Moresby, New Guinea in December 1942, being loaded by
American and Australian forces. Hudson Fysh, QEA founder and Managing Director with hands on hips.


VHCAA at Port Moresby, with "QANTAS" in a lighter colour painted on the camouflage on the nose.
Photo: Civil Aviation Historical Society South Australia via SA Aviation Museum


VHCAA later in the war in metallic finish.                                                                    Frank F. Smith collection


Guinea Airways Lodestar VHCAC at home base Parafield Airport, Adelaide in 1943.
Civil Aviation Historical Society Allan Betteridge Collection


Guinea Airways' Lodestar VHCAC at Parafield after camouflage had been removed.   Frank F. Smith collection


Guinea Airways VHCAC at Townsville 1944 with field code "W2104"(based on the aircraft's c/n 2104).       
Photo by Keith Belton via David Vincent


VHCAC at Townsville 1944 from the other side showing the Guinea Airways donkey artwork on the nose.
                    Photo by Brian Daw, via Nigel K. Daw


The Guinea Airways pack donkey nose art was clearly derived from the 22TCS emblem (below).   
David Vincent collection


USAAF 21st and 22nd Troop Carrier Squadrons were the first TCS in Australia and New Guinea in 1942.
They operated many of the aircraft in these listings.                  22TCS badge couresy Ron Cuskelly


VHCAC ran off the runway at Tennant Creek NT on 20 January 1944 but was quickly returned to service.
John Hopton Collection


VHCAF at Essendon June 1943 on handover to ANA from USAAF.                    Geoff Goodall collection
Lodestar VHCAF at Parafield circa 1943, with a Douglas C-39 parked behind.  Photo taken from the door of a
Guinea Airways Lockheed 14.                   Civil Aviation Historical Society Allan Betteridge Collection

Lodestar VHCAI while operated by USAAC 22TCS.                                         Photo: J. van Doorn


CBA
Boeing B-17C
2073
40-2072 
Pamela Miss E.M.F, crashed nr Mackay Qld 14.1.43, 40 killed
CBB
Douglas B-18
1731
36-343
ex VHCCB
CBC
Boeing B-17E
2308
41-2497
Tojo Jinx (also reported as Tojo's Nightmare), MAC-MAC
log: Townsville-Pt Moresby 26.12.42 USAAC Lt Woodington
crashed 11.43
CBD
Boeing B-17E 2251
41-2440

CBE
Boeing B-17E
2218
41-2408

CBF
Douglas C-331510
36-77
Noumea-Brisbane courier, crashed Tontouta, Noumea 12.43
CBG
Douglas C-331516
36-83
Noumea-Brisbane courier, condemned 31.3.42
CBH
Boeing B-17
CBI
Boeing B-17
CBJ
Boeing B-17



CBK
Boeing B-17


CBL
Consolidated LB-30 Liberator
68
AL570
Nipponese Nipper, loan to RAAF 36 Sqn 23.4.44 Belle,
log: Townsville-Merauke 22.5.44 4hr 35min,
Merauke-Higgins Field (Jacky Jacky) 23.5.44
Higgins Field-Townsville 24.5.44, all crewed by RAAF
Wing Commander G.H.Purvis and Sgn Ldt R.G.Cornfoot;
returned to USAAF 8.8.44
CBM
Consolidated LB-30 Liberator71
AL573
Kangaroo Kate, Gopher Gus;
to Consairways Pacific ferry service
CBN
Consolidated LB-30 Liberator12
AL515
Yard Bird crashed landing Milne Bay, New Guinea 20.8.42
CBO




CBP
Douglas C-53



CBR
Douglas B-18





B-17C 402072 in Australia on 22 October 1942. It was used as a troop transport with callsign VHCBA


B-17C VHCBA at Bankstown, Sydney


B-17E VHCBC in its role as a troop transport.                                                  David Vincent collection


VHCBC now named"MAC-MAC"at Port Moresby in December 1942 showing the personnel and equipment
it had just carried in. The caption claims a howitzer and jeep were inside.               AWM via David Vincent


LB-30 Liberator AL570, B-17 and B-18 at Perth WA after evacuation flights from Java early March 1942. 
The Liberator became freighter VHCBL.                                                Geoff Goodall collection


AL570 as VHCBL at Archerfield Qld with the bombardier nose skinned over.     Frank F. Smith collection


Two views of LB-30 Liberator AL573 as VHCBM, probably at Townsville.             David Vincent collection




CCA (1
Douglas C-39
2062
38-505
departed Nichols Field Manila 19.12.41 with General MacArthur's party for Australia, arrived Darwin 22.12.41,
Anne, allocated VHCCA
crashed on takeoff Alice Springs 25.5.42, 2,762 lbs overloaded with RAAF tracer ammunition bound for Darwin, 9 killed
CCA (2
Douglas C-47
4211
41-7732
USAAF on charge ex Douglas 13.2.42, shipped to Australia ex US, assembled by CAC Fishermans Bend Vic 4.42, to VHCCD
CCB (1
Douglas B-18
1731
36-343
departed Manila 19.12.41 with B-18 37-16, both arrived Darwin 22.12.41 via Tarakan, Balikpapan, Makassar, Koepang, both flew .50 cal supply runs from Amberley to Philippines and Java;
36-343 arrived Pearce WA from Java 13.3.42, no callsign on tail;
to VHCBB
CCB (2
Douglas C-53
4823
41-20053
Foitle Moitle, to RAAF 5.43-5.44, to Guinea Airways 5.44,
to QEA 7.44-4.46, returned to USAAF 4.46, to Clark Field disposal
CCC (1
Douglas C-39
2065
38-508
ex Phlippines, assigned 21 TCS Australia 5.42
USAAF card: condemned 6.5.43 at Rome Air Depot New York
CCC (2
Douglas C-53 4824
41-20054
Flaming Mamie, Kwitchy R.Richin, to RAAF 5.43-4.44,
tipped on nose landing Nadzab New Guinea 28.2.44 repaired;
to QEA 7.44-4.46 returned to USAAF 4.46, to Clark Field disposal
CCD (1
Douglas C-39
2084
38-527
shipped ex US; written-off 19.11.43 probably due accident
CCD (2
Douglas C-47 4211
41-7732
Miscellaneous, ex VHCCA, with 40 TCS 1.43 as VHCCD;
to VHCDH, VHCDL
CCD (3
Douglas C-47A 10082
42-24220

CCE (1
Douglas C-39
2092
38-535
Hot To Go
CCE (2
Douglas C-47 4212
41-7733
shipped ex US, assembled by CAC Fishermans Bend Vic 4.42,
to VHCDM, VHCDI
CCF
Douglas C-39 2087
38-530
shipped ex US, assembled CAC Fishermans Bend Vic 4.42,
The Abortion/Galahad,
to ANA 12.43 crashed Molesworth Vic 9.3.44
CCG
Douglas C-39
2076
38-519
shipped ex US, assembled CAC Fishermans Bend Vic 4.42, Andrea
to ANA 7.43, damaged Archerfield 7.12.43 collided with fuel truck, returned to USAAF 3.5.44
CCH (1
Douglas C-39 2089
38-532
shipped ex US, assembled by CAC Fishermans Bend Vic 4.42,
Down and Go, to ANA 6.43, returned to USAAF 4.5.44
CCH (2
Douglas C-47 6172
41-38713
Oregon Caveman No.1: del new ex USA to RAAF 3.43 as A30-15 to A65-1
CCI (1
Douglas C-47 4685
41-18560
Cheryl, strafed Port Moresby-Seven Mile Strip 27.11.42 writeoff
CCI (2
Douglas C-47
6088
41-18682
to VHCFA
CCJ
Douglas C-47 4590
41-18498
to VHCFB
CCK
Douglas C-47 4663
41-18538
to VHCFC
CCL
Douglas C-47 4664
41-18539
to VHCFD
CCM
Douglas C-47 4693
41-18568
The Broadway Ltd, crashed near Dobodura New Guinea 1.4.44
CCN
Douglas C-47 4696
41-18571
Johnny Reb, crashed New Guinea 2.12.42
CCO
Douglas C-47 4702
41-18577
Yanks Delight/Bugle Nose, to VHCFG
CCP
Douglas C-47 4708
41-18583
to VHCFH
CCQ
Douglas C-47 4709
41-18584
to VHCFI
CCR
Douglas C-47 4711
41-18586
to VHCFK
CCS
Douglas C-47 4726
41-18601
also VHCDU, VHCFX
CCT (1
Douglas C-47


crashed New Guinea 5.11.42
CCT (2
Douglas C-47 4776
41-18615
Walbash Cannon Ball, returned to United States 1.45
CCU (1
Douglas C-47 4689
41-18564
The Flying Dutchman, crashed Mount Obree, New Guinea 10.11.42
CCU (2
Douglas C-47
4731
41-38628
to VHCFT
CCV
Douglas C-474713
41-18588
The Hiawatha, to VHCFO
CCW
Douglas C-474720
41-18595
The Texas Special, to VHCFP
CCX
Douglas C-474722
41-18597
Golden Arrow, to VHCFQ
CCY(1
Douglas C-474629
41-38601
Swamp Rat, shot down New Guinea 11.42
CCY (2
Douglas C-47
6071
41-38676
Swamp Rat II
CCZ (1
Douglas C-474734
41-38631
Never Happened, shot down New Guinea 2.12.42
CCZ (2
Douglas C-47
6045
41-38662
crashed 10.3.43
Douglas C-47 41-7732 at Parafield during 1942, prior to being painted as VHCCA.
Civil Aviation Historical Society Allan Betteridge Collection

Douglas C-53 VHCCB Foitle Moitle at Parafield circa 1942.    Civil Aviation Historical Society Allan Betteridge Collection

Douglas C-53 VHCCC "Flaming Mamie" in New Guinea October 1942. Australian and American servicemen
are loading supplies through the small passenger door.  The USAAF star still has the red centre, which was soon
eliminated following confusion with the Japanese aircraft red roundel.              Civil Aviation Historical Society


Douglas C-53 VHCCC at Parafield SA, probably during its time on loan to RAAF.
Civil Aviation Historical Society Allan Betteridge Collection


C-39 VHCCF in USAAC service in Australia, name "Galahad" on nose.           David Vincent collection


VHCCF later with ANA on civil passenger services made a night forced landing at Molesworth Vic 9.3.44.
John Hopton collection


C-39 VHCCG at RAAF Station Wagga NSW in 1942. "11" on the nose was an early fleet numbering system.
Photo: Art Houseman


VHCCG at Port Moresby during 1942.                                             Barrie Colledge collection


C-39 VHCCG out of camouflage, loading US personnel probably at Archerfield.     David Vincent collection


C-39 VHCCH at Essendon with "ANA" on the nose                                 Geoff Goodall collection


ANA aircrew and other civilians with VHCCH, names and location not given.       David Vincent collection


C-39 VHCCH at Essendon in 1945 after camouflage had been removed, still operated by ANA.
Civil Aviation Historical Society Allan Betteridge Collection

CDA
Douglas C-49
3270
41-7685
Leone, Minnie, written off 12.12.44 due accident
CDB (1
Douglas C-49 3272
41-7687
Lady Eve, to RAAF 6.43-4.44, to ANA 4.44, damaged landing Nadzab, New Guinea 13.7.44
CDB (2 Douglas C-47B 20665
43-16199
to ANA 1.46 (27 pax), returned to USAAF 6.46
CDC (1 Douglas C-49A 3282
41-7690
Miss Carriage, to RAAF 6.43-4.44, to ANA 4.44
pilot logs: 29.5.44-6.6.44 Brisbane-Horn Island-20 return trips Horne Island to Merauke, Townsville-Brisbane Cpt Alf Fartch ANA;
23.11.44 Essendon-Sydney-Brisbane ANA Cpt D.Dunn
45: operated by ANA for USAAF 322 Troop Carrier Wing on courier from Australia to Philippines. 5th Air Force field number "W7690".
crashed in sea during landing Tacloban, Leyte, Philippines 13.11.45,
ANA Cpt H.Rawson, RAAF copilot, RAAF radio op, 12 US servicmen killed
CDC (2 Douglas C-47A 9906
42-24044
The East Coaster, to QEA 7.43, to ANA 1.46 (28 pax),
returned to USAAF .46
CDD (1 Douglas C-49B 4094
41-7691
Eager Elaine, to RAAF 6.43-4.44, to ANA 4.44,
returned to USAAF 1.46
CDD (2
Douglas C-47A 9765
42-23903
Maori Maid, to ANA 1.46 (28 pax), returned to USAAF .46
CDE (1
Douglas C-49B 4096
41-7693
5th AF Brisbane 4.9.42 Airline Alsie,
to CAC Melbourne 2.43 for cargo door,
to RAAF 24.6.43-4.44
pilot logs: 26.7.43 Milne Bay(Gurney)-Goodenough Island 26.7.43 RAAF
2.8.43 Port Moresby-Milne Bay-Woodlark-Goodenough-Dobodura-Buna-
Port Moresby
4.8.43 Port Moresby-Milne Bay-Goodenough-Milne Bay-Trobriand-Milne Bay-Port Moresby
26.9.43 Townsville-Milne Bay-Townsville
27.9.43 Townsville-Rockhampton-Archerfield
29.1.44 Port Moresby-Dobodura-Goodenough-Dobodura-Port Moresby
10.2.44 Port Moresby-Milne Bay-Goodenough-Kiriwina-Woodlark-Milne Bay-
Port Moresby
21.2.44 Port Moresby-Dobodura-Lae-Finschafen-Lae-Dobodura-Moresby
23.2.44 Port Moresby-Dobodura-Goodenough-Dobodura-Moresby
15.3.44 Port Moresby-Dobodura-Goodenough-Dobodura-Moresby
21.4.44 delivered by RAAF to USAAF Archerfield
Handed over to ANA 26.4.44
log: Brisbane-Townsville-Brisbane-Port Moresby-Finschafen- Townsville-Brisbane 24-28.5.44 Alf Fartch ANA
6.2.45 sold to ANA, became VH-ANP
CDE (2
Douglas C-47B 27016
43-49755
to ANA 1.46 (27 pax), returned to USAAF 6.46
CDF (1
Douglas C-49 3297
41-7694
Calamity Mary-Jane, to VHCDH
CDF (2
Douglas C-47A
18944
42-100481
Margie, crashed Finschafen, New Guinea 2.6.44
CDG (1
Douglas C-49 3271
41-7686
5th AF Brisbane 1.9.42 Mucky Minnie, to CAC Melbourne 1.43 for cargo door, to RAAF 24.6.43-4.44,
to ANA 23.4.44
pilot logs: 2.2.44 Goodenough-Dobodura-Port Moresby
5.2.44 Pt Moresby-Dobodura-Goodenough-Dobodura-Moresby
2.3.44 Pt Moresby-Dobodura-Nadzab-Lae-Finschafen-Lae-Nadzab-Moresby
12.3.44 Pt Moresby-Milne Bay-Moresby-Dobodura-Moresby
19.3.44 Pt Moresby-Dobodura-Nadzab-Finschafen-Lae-Nadzab-Moresby
23.3.44 Pt Moresby-Milne Bay-Moresby
30.3.44 Pt Moresby-Townsville
19.4.44 Townsville-Archerfield 19.4.44 RAAF delivery to USAAC
23.4.44 Handed over to ANA
18-19.5.44 Brisbane-Cloncurry-Gorrie return Alf Fartch ANA
CDG (2
Douglas C-47B 20705
43-16239
to ANA 2.46 (28 pax), not used,  returned to USAAF .46
CDH (1
Douglas C-51B
3289
41-7702
right hand door
CDH (2
Douglas C-49 3297
41-7694
Calamity Mary-Jane, ex VHCDF, missing non-combat flight 24.4.43
CDH (3
Douglas C-47 4211
41-7732
ex VHCCD, to VHCDL
CDH (4
Douglas C-47 6010
41-18649
ex VHCHB, The Real McCoy, to ANA 2.45
CDI (1
Douglas C-50C 4083
41-7695
The Apple Cart, crashed 12.11.42
CDI (2
Douglas C-47 4212
41-7733
ex VHCDM, crashed in sea Cleveland Bay, Townsville Qld 7.8.43
CDJ (1
Douglas C-50 4120
41-7698
Waltzing Matilda, Narth Nikka, Winnie, to RAAF 6.43-4.44,
to Guinea AW 5.44,
log: Archerfield-Parafield 2-3.5.44 on delivery to Guinea Airways
CDJ (2
Douglas C-47A 9397
42-23535
to ANA 2.46, not used, returned to USAAF .46
CDK (1
Douglas C-50 4119
41-7697
Laka Nookie, Kqitchyr Bichin, to RAAF 5.43-5.44,
to Guinea AW 5.44,
log: testflown Parafield 16.5.44 by Guinea AW crew after delivery to Guinea AW from Archerfield earlier that month;
CDK (2
Douglas C-47B
20763
43-16297
ex VHCHB, to ANA 2.46, returned to USAAF 2.46
CDL (1 Douglas C-47 4211
41-7732
Yankee Flyer ex VH-CDH, ferried back to United States 8.44
CDL (2 Douglas C-47A 19920
43-15454
Accepted USAAF Brisbane 23.4.44 on delivery ex US,
log: CDL Parafield-Essendon-Mascot-Archerfield 30.4.44,
op by QEA handed over at Archerfield 8.5.44, returned USAAF 29.7.44
CDM (1
Douglas C-49
3273
41-7688
Ex Philippines, On Risky Business, crashed Batchelor NT 8.42
CDM (2 Douglas C-47 4212
41-7733
Eager Beaver, ex VHCCE, to VHCDI
CDM (3 Douglas C-47A 19902
43-15436
to QEA 5.44, returned to USAAF 7.44
CDN (1
Douglas C-47



CDN (2
Douglas C-47
4750
41-38647
Maid in Japan, returned to United States 1.45
CDO (1
Douglas C-47
4710
41-18585
to VHCFL
CDO (2
Douglas C-474789
41-18628
Holey Joe, written-off 8.43 due accident
CDP
Douglas C-474712
41-18587
crashed Santo, New Hebrides 9.11.42
CDQ
Douglas C-474732
41-38629
to VHCFU
CDR (1
Douglas C-474733
41-38630
to VHCFV
CDR (2
Douglas C-47
4211
41-7732
ex VHCDH, to VH-CDL
CDS
Douglas C-474723
41-18598
Annalise, ground collision with aircraft Townsville 12.43, writeoff
CDT
Douglas C-474737
41-38634
to VHCFW
CDU (1
Douglas C-474726
41-18601
ex VHCCS, to VHCFX
CDU (2
Douglas C-47
4773
41-18612
to VHCFY
CDV (1
 Douglas C-534840
41-20070
Dipsy Doodle/Natti Nikka, to VHCWA
CDV (2
Douglas C-47A
19907
43-15441
Destination Unknown
(CDW)
Douglas C-534836
41-20066
paper allocation, forced landing north of Wyndham WA 26.2.42
CDW
Douglas C-47


crashed Wards Strip, Port Moresby 31.1.43
(CDX)
Douglas C-53
4821
41-20051
paper allocation, strafed Bathust Island NT 19.2.42 written off
CDX (1
Douglas B-181731
36-343
ex VHCBB, VHCCB
CDX (2
Douglas C-47A
9362
43-23500
crashed Mount Thumb, New Guinea 23.12.43
CDY (1
Douglas C-47


written-off 1.43 due accident
CDY (2
Douglas C-47A
9299
42-23427
Miss America
CDZ (1
Douglas C-39
2059
38-501
written-off 3.44 due accident
CDZ (2
Douglas C-47A
9718
42-23856
Polly, written-off 12.45 due accident


Douglas C-49 VHCDB "Lady Eve".                                                Frank F. Smith collection


C-49B VHCDE at Saidor, New Guinea in late 1944, with ANA airline name and field number "W12".
Barrie Colledge collection


C-50 VHCDJ probably at Townsville, field number "W7698".        Photo by Keith Belton via David Vincent


Mystery photo: Guinea Airways C-47 at Townsville with field number "W7688" which makes it USAAF
41-7688/VHCDM (1). However it was written off before the DAT Australian airlines contracts commenced.
The picture almost certainly shows 41-7698/VH-CDJ which was operated by Guines Airways from Townsville,
with mispainted field number: compare with next picture of VHCDJ.                David Vincent collection


C-50 VHCDJ "W7698" having a wheel change. The Guinea Airways name on the nose appears to have been
obliterated on the photograph, possibly by the wartime censor.                    David Anderson collection


Guinea Airways C-50 VHCDK in camouflage at home base Parafield.                 Geoff Goodall collection


Guinea Airways C-50 VHCDK at Townsville after camouflage removed.   Photo by Brian Daw via Nigel Daw


C-50 VHCDK at Townsville, field number "W7697" (USAAF serial 41-7697).         David Vincent collection


Qantas C-47A VHCDL also displaying its USAAF serial 43-15454.                     Frank F. Smith collection


Qantas C-47A VHCDM also displaying its USAAF serial 43-15436.                     Frank F. Smith collection


Douglas C-53 41-20066 (allocated VHCDW) made a night forced landing in scrub north of Wyndham WA
in February 1942. The dismantled airframe was photographed in May 1978 by Derek Macphail.
A ground inspection confirmed that no callsign had been painted on the tail.


C-53 41-20051 was allocated callsign VHCDX but was written off when stafed by Japanese aircraft after
landing on Bathurst Island near Darwin in February 1942.                                    Photo: AWM

41-20051 was later broken up for parts, moved off the airfield and dumped over a cliff on to a beach.
 Its remains were still on Bathurst Island when photographed in October 1949 by Phil McCulloch.


41-20051's wings at Bathurst Island in 1949 had original USAAC markings "61" of No.62 Transport Group.
However with the outbreak of the Pacific war it had been diverted and shipped to Australia under "Project X".


All USAAC Lockheed C-60 Lodestars
CEA
Lockheed C-60
2187
42-32167
crashed Wards Strip, Port Moresby, New Guinea 3.12.42
CEB
Lockheed C-602188
42-32168
crashed on takeoff Dobodura, New Guinea 10.42
CEC
Lockheed C-60
2192
42-32172
to ANA 7.43 (19 pax),
log: Adelaide-Melbourne 13.3.44 Alf Fartch ANA,
returned to USAAF Eagle Farm 23.4.44, written-off 10.44 as salvage
CED
Lockheed C-60  2193
42-32173 to RAAF 7.43 Kia Ora, returned to USAAF Eagle Farm 3.44
CEE
Lockheed C-60A  2194
42-32174 to RAAF 7.43 Tiki, to Guinea AW 2.44, returned to USAAF 2.44
CEF
Lockheed C-60A 2195
42-32175 The Texas Wrangler, crashed 12.43 New Guinea
CEG
Lockheed C-60A 2186
42-32166
written-off 9.44 due accident
CEH
Lockheed C-60A 2196
42-32176 to ANA 7.43 19 pax,
log: Melbourne-Adelaide 12.3.44 ANA,
returned to USAAF Port Moresby 4.5.44, written-off 7.44 as salvage
CEI
Lockheed C-60A 2197
42-32177
crashed Wards Strip, Port Moresby, New Guinea 22.10.42,
CEJ
Lockheed C-60A 2198
42-32178 to RAAF 7.43 Rebel, returned to USAAF Eagle Farm 3.44


USAAF Lockheed C-60A Lodestar VHCEF "The Texas Wrangler" visiting RAAF Cootamundra NSW.
John Hopton Collection


Australian troops loading wounded men with their pet dog on to a USAAF Lodestar, New Guinea September 1942.
Photograph: Civil Aviation Historical Society


CFA (1
Douglas C-47
4493
41-18431
Kathy, written off 8.43 due accident
CFA (2
Douglas C-47
6088
41-18682
ex VHCCI, lost due enemy action Tsili Tsili New Guinea 18.8.43
CFB (1
Douglas C-47 4590
41-18498
ex VHCCJ, Slut II,  written off 3.45 due accident
CFB (2
Douglas C-47 6007
41-18646
Irene, to RAAF 7.44, to VHCHA  
CFC
Douglas C-47 4663
41-18538
ex VHCCK, Sleepy Lagoon, written off 12.45 due accident
CFD
Douglas C-47 4664
41-18539
ex VHCCL, Estelle, returned to United States 2.45
CFE (1
Douglas C-47
6050
41-38667
written-off 12.43 due accident
CFE (2
Douglas C-47 6028
41-18667
 crashed 24.1.44
CFF
Douglas C-47A 9559
42-23697
Miscellaneum
CFG (1
Douglas C-47 4702
41-18577
ex VHCCO, Yanks Delight/Bugle Nose, returned to US 8.44
CFG (2
Douglas C-47
6029
41-18668
missing 8.8.43 enemy action
CFH
Douglas C-47 4708
41-18583
ex VHCCP, Pushy Cat, crashed near Cloncurry Qld 20.10.43
CFI
Douglas C-47 4709
41-18584
ex VHCCQ, Flamingo/Pel, crashed Kokoda, New Guinea 15.10.42
CFJ
Douglas C-47 4710
41-18585
6TCS crashed near Efogi New Guinea 16.10.42
CFK
Douglas C-47 4711
41-18586
ex VHCCR, Shamrock, returned to United States 6.44
CFL
Douglas C-47
4710
41-18585
ex VHCDO, crashed New Guinea 10.42, wreck located 1982
CFM
Douglas C-47

crashed Bofu, New Guinea during supply drop 5.11.42
CFN
Douglas C-47


CFO
Douglas C-47 4713
41-18588
ex VHCCV, The Hiawatha, returned to United States .44
CFP
Douglas C-47 4720
41-18595
ex VHCCW, The Texas Special, written off 11.44 due accident
CFQ
Douglas C-47 4722
41-18597
ex VHCCX, The Golden Arrow,
log: Port Moresby-Milne Bay 29.6.43 41TCS but RAAF crew;
written off 3.45 due accident
CFR
Douglas C-47 4727
41-18602
Yankee Flyer, returned to United States 12.45
CFS
Douglas C-47



CFT
Douglas C-47
4731
4138628
ex VHCCU, written off 31.10.44 due accident
CFU
Douglas C-47 4732
41-38629
ex VHCDQ, The Cherokee, returned to United States 1.45
CFV
Douglas C-47 4733
41-38630
ex VHCDR, Duchess, returned to United States 9.44
CFW
Douglas C-47 4737
41-38634
ex VHCDT, The Rocket, returned to United States 1.45
CFX (1
Douglas C-47


crashed in sea Lae, New Guinea 26.11.42
CFX (2
Douglas C-474726
41-18601
also VHCCS,VHCDS,VHCDU, South Wind, returned to US 3.45
CFY
Douglas C-47
4773
41-18612
Cleo, crashed landing Cooktown Qld 13.6.44 enroute Garbutt-Fall River (Milne Bay). USAAF crew and 24 American servicemen unhurt.
Repaired by USAAF, returned to United States 1.45
CFZ
Douglas C-474750
41-38647
Maid In Japan, returned to United States 4 .45


Two C-47s used callsigns VHCFB                                                     Frank F. Smith collection


VHCFB (2 later in the war painted with USAAF star and bar.        Geoff Goodall collection


C-47 VHCFG "Bugle Nose" with callsign painted over the USAAF serial on the tail.    Frank F.Smith collection


VHCFH evacuating casualties during the New Guinea campaign.         Australian War Memorial 151021


VHCFQ loads US personnel at Wards Field, Port Moresby in December 1943.    David Anderson collection


USAAF photograph of VHCFY's landing crash at Cooktown Qld on 13 June 1944          David Vincent collection


RAAF file reference to VHCFY's accident at Cooktown.
27OBU Operations Record Book: NAA, courtesy Phil Herdman


CGA (1
Douglas C-47
6003
41-18642
lost to enemy action Dobodura, New Guinea 12.3.43
CGA (2
Douglas C-47A
9280
42-23418
The Broadway Limited, to RAAF Oki,
log: Townsville-Port Moresby 25.5.43 Lt Johnson USAAC;
loaned to Netherlands East Indies Air Force in Australia 4.44-8.44
CGB (1
Douglas C-47
6006
41-18645
loaned to Netherlands East Indies Air Force in Australia 11.43-5.44
returned to United States 1.45
CGB (2
Douglas C-47A 9351
42-23489
Miss Priss, returned to United States 6.44
CGC (1
Douglas C-47 6009
41-18648
Star Duster, crashed near Monto Qld 21.11.43
CGC (2
Douglas C-47A 9347
42-23485
Barbara Ann,
loaned to Netherlands East Indies Air Force in Australia 1.44-8.44
CGC (3
Douglas C-47A
18946
42-100483
written-off 4.45 due combat damage Philippines
CGD (1
Douglas C-47
6012
41-18651
crashed Dobodura, New Guinea 14.5.43
CGD (2
Douglas C-47A 9348
42-23486
The Winged Zephyr,
loaned Netherlands East Indies Air Force in Australia 1.44-7.44
returned to United States 7.43
CGD (3
Douglas C-47A 19898
43-15432
loaned Netherlands East Indies Air Force in Australia 7.44-8.44
written-off 11.44 due accident Australia
CGE (1
Douglas C-47 6017
41-18656
Touch of Texas, returned to United States .44
CGE (2
Douglas C-47A 9353
42-23491
Flying Boxcar
loaned Netherlands East Indies Air Force in Australia 1.44-8.44
CGF (1
Douglas C-47
6019
41-18658
destroyed by bombing 30.1.43
CGF (2
Douglas C-47A 9350
42-23488
Ready Willing and Able,
loaned Netherlands East Indies Air Force in Australia 1.44-8.44
to Clark Field for disposal
CGG (1
Douglas C-47 6032
41-18671
Flamin Mamie ll,
loaned Netherlands East Indies Air Force in Australia 1.43-9.43, 4.44-7.44,
to Tacloban for disposal, sold 11.45 to NEIAF as DT-954
CGG (2
Douglas C-47A9352
42-23490also reported as VHCGC, returned to United States c44
CGH (1
Doiuglas C-47
6041
41-38658
Allayne-ious, crashed near Wau, New Guinea 7.2.43
CGH (2
Douglas C-47A 9443
42-23581
Oki,
loaned Netherlands East Indies Air Force in Australia 1.43-11.43
ran into ditch landing Gusap, New Guinea 13.11.43 written-off
CGI
Douglas C-47A9452
42-23590
Tricky Tex,
loaned Netherlands East Indies Air Force in Australia 1.43-9.43, 4.44-7.44
to Clark Field for disposal
CGJ
Douglas C-47A 9445
42-23583
The Pathfinder,
loaned Netherlands East Indies Air Force in Australia 11.43-7.44
to Clark Field for disposal
CGK
Douglas C-47A 9451
42-23589
Betty El,
loaned Netherlands East Indies Air Force in Australia 1.43-9.43, 4.44-7.44
written-off 6.45 due accident Manila
CGL (1
Douglas C-47A 9446
42-23584
Barbara B,
loaned Netherlands East Indies Air Force in Australia 1.43-9.43
wrecked in ground-loop New Guinea 28.10.43
CGL (2
 Douglas C-47A
 9815
 42-23953
 Hairless Joe
loaned Netherlands East Indies Air Force in Australia 4.44-6.44
CGM
Douglas C-47A 9447
42-23585
Bubbles, log: Coomalie NT to Archerfield Qld 3-4.7.43;
CGN
Douglas C-47A 9448
42-23586
We Do'd It's
loaned Netherlands East Indies Air Force in Australia 1.43-9.43,4.44-6.44
log: Townsville-Brisbane 14.11.43 USAAF crew
written-off 5.45 due accident Manila
CGO
Douglas C-47A 9449
42-23587
Lookin' Fer Trouble,
loaned Netherlands East Indies Air Force in Australia 1.43-9.43,4.44-7.44
to Philippines, Japan
CGP (1
Douglas C-47A 9450
42-23588
Blonde Baby,
wing struck tree taxying Momote, New Guinea 13.3.44, repaired;
loaned Netherlands East Indies Air Force in Australia 4.44-8.44
to Philippines, written-off 12.45 as salvage
CGP (2
Douglas C-47A 13894
43-30743
crashed 7.3.45
CGQ
Douglas C-47A 9444
42-23582
Honeymoon Express,
loaned Netherlands East Indies Air Force in Australia 4.44-7.44
crashed 18.3.45
CGR
Douglas C-47A 9513
42-23651
Lazy Lady,
loaned Netherlands East Indies Air Force in Australia 5.44-7.44
to Philippines, Japan
CGS
Douglas C-47A 9515
42-23653
Yingle Yangle,
loaned Netherlands East Indies Air Force in Australia 5.44-7.44
to Philippines, written-off 2.46 due accident
CGT
Douglas C-47A9519
42-23657
Venice Shortline, returned to United States c44
CGU
Douglas C-47A9518
42-23656
The Rube,
loaned Netherlands East Indies Air Force in Australia 4.44-7.44
to Philippines
CGV
Douglas C-47A9522
42-23660
Becky,
loaned Netherlands East Indies Air Force in Australia 5.44-7.44
CGW
Douglas C-47A9524
42-23662
Annie Oakley,
loaned Netherlands East Indies Air Force in Australia 4.44-7.44
to Philippines, Japan
CGX
Douglas C-47A9521
42-23659
The Amazon,
loaned Netherlands East Indies Air Force in Australia 4.44-7.44
accident Philippines 4.45
CGY (1
Douglas C-47A9520
42-23658
Tootzee, written-off 2.45 due accident
CGY (2
Douglas C-47A12646
42-92805
to Philippines, written-off 12.45 as salvage
CGZ (1
Douglas C-47A9560
42-23698
Michaeline, crashed near Wau, New Guinea 27.8.43
CGZ (2
 Douglas C-47A
 12667
 42-92824
 loaned Netherlands East Indies Air Force in Australia 7.44-8.44


VHCGG "FlaminMamiell II" refuels at Cloncury Queensland 6 February 1944.      AWM via David Vincent


VHCGP loading supplies at Mareeba, Queensland 13 April 1944. But which one?    Barrie Colledge collection


VHCGP "Blonde Baby" confirmed as C-47A 42-23588 by the nose data block.       Barrie Colledge collection


Douglas C-47A VHCGQ "Honeymoon Express".                                         David Vincent collection


VHCGQ "Honeymoon Express" had field number "62" in this picture.          Barrie Colledge collection


VHCGQ now with field number "412" behind the cockpit.                                     Barrie Colledge collection


CHA (1
Douglas C-47
6007
41-18646
ex VHCFB, to Australian Govt 7.44 as VH-AER
CHA (2
Douglas C-47A 9526
42-23664
The Last Straw, returned to United States 6.44
CHB (1
Douglas C-47 6010
41-18649
The Real McCoy, to VHCDH
CHB (2
Douglas C-47A 9461
42-23599
Pan American
CHB (3
Douglas C-47B
20763
43-16297
to VHCDK
CHC
Douglas C-47A 9460
42-23598
The Georgia Peach, Aeolus
log: Horn Island-Merauke 9.11.43 Aeolus USAAF crew,
to Philippines, written-off 2.46 as salvage
CHD
Douglas C-47A 9516
42-23654
Sweet Petudie!, to Philippines, written-off 2.46 as salvage
CHE (1
Douglas DC-2


reportedly crashed Charters Towers Qld 22.6.42
same fate as DC-2 VHCXF ex PK-AFK
CHE (2
Douglas C-47A 9517
42-23655
returned to United States c44
CHF
Douglas C-47A 9523
42-23661
Breezy Ann, written off 11.44 due accident
CHG (1
Douglas C-47
6024
41-18663
Aeolus, to Australian Govt 7.44 as VH-AEQ
CHG(2
Douglas C-47A 9814
42-23952
Gremlin Special/Guinea Gopher
log: Merauke-Townsville 13.11.43 Guinea Gopher USAAF crew;
crashed in valley near Hollandia 13.5.45, 21k, 3 survivors rescued 47 days later by CG-4 glider towed in and out by a C-46.
CHH
Douglas C-47A 9816
42-23954
Usta Olfinga, Frigit Midgit Jnr, to Clark Field for disposal
CHI (1
Dougkas C-47
6047
41-38664
missing non-combat flight 10.43
CHI
Douglas C-47A 9817
42-23955
Lonesome Angel, destroyed by fire 2.8.44
CHJ (1
Douglas C-47
6051
41-38668
Geronimo, to Australian Govt 7.44 as VH-AEO
CHJ (2
Douglas C-47A 9820
42-23958
Loveable Lou, damaged stafing attack Gusap, New Guinea 6.11.43,
written off 8.45 due accident
CHK
Douglas C-47A 9821
42-23959
Hells Bells, forced landing Lea Lea near Port Moresby 14.9.44, wreck in situ into 1970s, markings VHCHK painted over 42-23959 still readable on tail
CHL
Douglas C-47A
9822
42-23960
Michelle, to Philippines, Japan
CHM
Douglas C-47A 9823
42-23961
Fat Cat
log: Townsville-Horn Island 6.11.43 USAAF crew
destroyed by enemy action 6.11.43
CHN
Douglas C-47A
9826
42-23964
Old Bucket of Bolts, to Clark Field for disposal
CHO
Douglas C-47A 13902
43-30751

CHP
Douglas C-47A 13903
43-30752
crashed 2.12.43
CHP
Douglas C-47A

log: Cloncurry-Townsville 2.5.44 22TCS
CHQ
Douglas C-47A


operating USAAF SWPA GHQ daily courier Nichols Field Manila to Tolosa 3.45 with C-47 VHCXE
CHR
Douglas C-47


CHS




CHT
Douglas C-47


CHU




CHV




CHW
Douglas C-47A 13910
43-30759
crashed 23.12.44
CHX




CHY




CHZ
Douglas C-47A 12671
42-92827


C-47A VHCHC at Townsville Queensland 1944 was in the distant background of a photograph.
Bob Livingstone collection
C-47 VHCHK of USAAF 39th TCS/317th TCG at Archerfield August 1943 while on loan to the Dutch Transport Section,
crewed by Dutch airmen including former KNILM pilots (l-r) Kap Smirnoff, S.M.Gijzemijter, Elt Reyers and Adj Hoogland.
Photo: Netherlands East Indies Government Information Service

Australian troops unload a C-47 with VHCHZ behind.                          Australian War Memorial 73239

All RAAF Dakotas
CIA
Douglas C-47A
12873
A65-44

CIB
Douglas C-47A 12872
A65-45

CIC
Douglas C-47A 12874 A65-46
CID
Douglas C-47A 13083
A65-48
CIE
Douglas C-47A 13084 A65-49
CIF
Douglas C-47A 13082
A65-50
CIG
Douglas C-47A 12361
A65-39
struck mountain on supply drop Maprik, New Giunea 3.5.45
CIH
Douglas C-47A 13085
A65-51

CII
Douglas C-47A13318
A65-52
CIJ
Douglas C-47A 25365
A65-56
log: Archerfield-Rockhampton-Townsville 24.11.44 RAAF crew
crashed into sea Milne Bay, New Guinea 11.9.45
CIK
Douglas C-47A 25366
A65-58

CIL
Douglas C-47A 25364
A65-59
CIM
Douglas C-47A 27129
A65-70
CIN
Douglas C-47A27131
A65-71

CIODouglas C-47A 32668
A65-72

CIPDouglas C-47A 32671
A65-73

CIQ
Douglas C-47A 32680
A65-74

CIR
Douglas C-47A 32667
A65-75

CIS
Douglas C-47A 32575
A65-76

CIT
Douglas C-47A 32679
A65-77
crashed on takeoff Sydney Airport 27.6.45
CIU
Douglas C-47A 32677
A65-78

CIV
Douglas C-47A 32669
A65-79

CIW
Douglas C-47A 32672
A65-80

CIX
Douglas C-47A 32673
A65-81

CIY
Douglas C-47A 27128
A65-82

CIZ
Douglas C-47A 32875
A65-83
missing enroute Ambon-Darwin 19.12.45


RAAF C-47A A65-44 with callsign VHCIA in white on the rudder at Lae in March 1945.
It was quickly repaired after the undercarriage was accidentally retracted on the ground.
Frank F. Smith collection


RAAF C-47 A65-44 VHCIA in March 1946, wartime camouflage removed but retaining the callsign, under
overhaul at the Department of Aircraft Production hangars at Parafield SA.         John M. Smith collection


A65-48 VHCID with RAAF 36 Squadron code RE-W in 1945                                                        AWM


A65-48 at Parafield SA in 1946 after overhaul and camouflage removal by Department of Aircraft Production.
Barrie Colledge collection


A65-52 VHCII with RAAF 34 Squadron code FD-P                           Frank F. Smith collection


A65-71 VHCIN with RAAF 37 Squadron code OM-N                                Frank F.Smith collection


40 years later, A65-71 was gifted to the Australian War Memorial and for some years flown by the RAAF
 in wartime markings on behalf of the AWM.  RAAF Richmond October 1988,        Photo by Geoff Goodall
 

CJA
Douglas C-47
6014
41-18653
Burma Girl/Sleepy Saloon, returned to United States 1.45
CJB
Douglas C-47
6044
41-38661
Miss Ohio, returned to United States c45
CJC
Douglas C-47


CJD
Douglas C-47


CJE
Douglas C-47


CJF
Douglas C-47A 12630
42-92790
written-off 2.45 due accident
CJG
Douglas C-47A 12631
42-92791
Annette, to Philippines
CJH
Douglas C-47A
12632
42-92792
Dobbie, to Philippines, written-off 10.45 as salvage
CJI
Douglas C-47A 12633
42-92793
Daffy, to Philippines, written-off 10.45 as salvage
CJJ
Douglas C-47A 12634
42-92794
Boobs, to Philippines, written-off 10.45 as salvage
CJK
Douglas C-47A


CJL
Douglas C-47A 12636
42-92796
to RAAF 19 Sqn as DT963 VHREQ
CJM
Douglas C-47A

The Shack Trooper
CJN




CJO
Douglas C-47A

Michaeline
CJP
Douglas C-47A 13895
43-30744
written-off 3.45 due accident
CJQ




CJR




CJS




CJT
Douglas C-47A 12643
42-92802
Fair Dinkum, strafed 28.12.44 written-off
CJU
Douglas C-47A 12644
42-92803
Daffy, to Philippines, written-off 10.45 as salvage
CJV
Douglas C-47A 12646
42-92805
to Philippines, written-off 10.45 as salvage
CJW
Douglas C-47A
12647
42-92806
ex VHCKG returned to USAAF 9.44 ex RAAF, to Clark Field for disposal
CJX




CJY




CJZ






C-47A VHCJH in New Guinea bringing visiting entertainers including movie actor Gary Cooper.
David Anderson collection

 
VHCJT "Fair Dinkum" at Vivigani, Goodenough Island.                                   Frank F. Smith collection


CKA
Douglas C-47A
19189
42-100726
to RAAF 1.44, returned to USAAF 9.44, returned to US
CKB
Douglas C-47A 19190
42-100727
to RAAF 1.44, returned to USAAF 9.44, to Philippines
CKC
Douglas C-47A 19191
42-100728
to RAAF 4.44, returned to USAAF 10.44, missing 28.6.45
CKD
Douglas C-47A 19192
42-100729
to RAAF 4.44, returned to USAAF 9.44, to Philippines
CKE
Douglas C-47A

to RAAF 4.44, accident Pt Moresby 2.7.44, returned USAAF 10.44
CKF
Douglas C-47A 12645
42-92804
to RAAF 4.44, returned to USAAF 10.44, written-off 9.45 accident
CKG
Douglas C-47A 12647
42-92806
to RAAF 4.44 U Beaut, returned to USAAF 26.9.44 to VHCJW
CKH
Douglas C-47A 12652
42-92810
to RAAF 4.44, returned to USAAF 10.44, to Philippines
CKI
Douglas C-47A

to RAAF 4.44, returned to USAAF 10.44
CKJ
Douglas C-47A

to RAAF 4.44, returned to USAAF 9.44
CKK
Douglas C-47A

to RAAF 4.44, returned to USAAF 10.44
CKL
Douglas C-47A

to RAAF 4.44, returned to USAAF 10.44
CKM
Douglas C-47A

to RAAF 4.44, returned to USAAF 10.44
CKN
Douglas C-47B Dakota (RAAF) 26001
A65-63

CKO
Douglas C-47B Dakota (RAAF) 26000
A65-62
crashed night landing in fog on Longreach Qld racecourse 1.6.45
CKP




CKQ




CKR




CKS
Short S.25 Sunderland (RAAF)

A26-1
to VHCOA
CKT
Short S.25 Sunderland (RAAF)
A26-3
to VHCOC

Douglas C-47 VHCKA somewhere in the islands 1944.                                                John Hopton Collection

CNA
Lockheed 18 Lodestar
2105
LT910
retained by ML-KNIL in Australia
CNB
Lockheed 18 Lodestar 2110
LT915
retained by ML-KNIL in Australia, scrapped Canberra
CNC
Douglas C-47



CND
Douglas C-47





All RAAF
COA (1
Airspeed Oxford        

BF976
loan to US Services of Supply, Townsville 8.42, painted in USAAC markings, returned to RAAF 7.43
COA (2
Short S.25 Sunderland
SB3552
A26-1

COB (1
Airspeed Oxford        

BF987
loan to USAAC 8.42, returned to RAAF 4.43
COB (2
Short S.25 Sunderland
SB.3553
A26-2

COC (1
Airspeed Oxford

BM740

COC (2
Short S.25 Sunderland  SB.3554
A26-3

COD (1
Airsoeed Oxford

X6690
loan to US Services of Supply 8.42
COD (2
Short S.25 Sunderland  SB.3555
A26-4

COE (1
Airspeed Oxford         

AT433
loan to US Services of Supply 8.42, accident landing Rockhampton Qld 6.10.42, returned to RAAF 6.43
COE (2
Short S.25 Sunderland 
A26-5

COF (1
DH.82A Tiger Moth


"964" loan to USAAC
COF (2
Short S.25 Sunderland
A26-6

COG
Vultee L-1C Vigilant

41-18958
operated by RAAF 33 Sqn, crashed Chesnut Bay, New Guinea
COH
Vultee L-1C Vigilant

41-18959
operated by RAAF 33 Sqn, crashed Myola Lake, New Guinea
COI
Vultee L-1C Vigilant

41-19050
operated by RAAF 33 Sqn, crashed Myola Lake, New Guinea
COJ
Dornier Do 24K           WNr765
A49-1

COK
Dornier Do 24K            WNr767
A49-2

COL
Dornier Do 24K            WNr768
A49-3

COM
Dornier Do 24K            WNr769
A49-4

CON
Dornier Do 24K            WNr770
A49-5
burnt out at moorings Darwin 11.3.44
Photographs of VHCO series aircraft have not been found. Instead here is a logbook page for RAAF pilot John Barratt
while he was with No.2 Air Ambulance Unit at Kingaroy Qld.                           Courtesy Dave Vincent

All RAAF
CPA
Martin PBM-3R Mariner
2965
A70-1

CPB
Martin PBM-3R Mariner  2981
A70-2

CPC
Martin PBM-3R Mariner  2999
A70-3

CPD
Martin PBM-3R Mariner  3004
A70-4

CPE
Martin PBM-3R Mariner  3019
A70-5

CPF
Martin PBM-3R Mariner  2979
A70-6

CPG
Martin PBM-3R Mariner  2959
A70-7

CPH
Martin PBM-3R Mariner  3108
A70-8

CPI
Martin PBM-3R Mariner  3028
A70-9

CPJ
Martin PBM-3R Mariner
2975
A70-10

CPK
Martin PBM-3C Mariner  3117
A70-11

CPL
Martin PBM-3C Mariner  2991
A70-12


All RAAF
CRA
Short S.23 Empire    
S.843
A18-11
sank after landing in heavy sea off Daru, New Guinea 8.8.42
CRB
Short S.23 Empire      S.877
A18-13
returned to QEA 7.43 to VH-ABB
CRC
Short S.23 Empire       S.1025
A18-14
returned to QEA 7.43 to VH-ACD 
CRD
Douglas DC-2           
1372
A30-10
crashed on takeoff Mallacoota Vic 25.11.42
CRE
Douglas DC-2             1286
A30-11
Maaleesh, damaged forced landing Parafield SA 2.3.45
CRF
Douglas DC-2            1257
A30-12
Silk Merchant
CRG
Douglas DC-2          1373
A30-13
crashed landing Cooktown Qld 8.1.43
CRH
Douglas DC-2            1288
A30-14
Me Mate, loaned to ANA 10.43-2.44 as a freighter,
log: Melbourne-Sydney-Brisbane return 13.10, 18.10 and 29.10.43, forced landing Evans Head 2.12.43 broken fuel line, all ANA crews,
returned to RAAF 2.44
CRI
Douglas DC-2
1287
A30-5
crashed landing Seven Mile Strip, Port Moresby New Guinea 14.9.42
CRJ
Douglas DC-2             1259
A30-6
crashed Stockyard Strip, Townsville 23.12.42. sold damaged to ANA for civil use, rebuilt Essendon as VH-ADQ CofA 26.11.43
CRK
Douglas DC-2             1292
A30-9
Elzapoppin
CRL




CRM
DH.84 Dragon
2022 (DHA)
A34-33

CRN
DH.84 Dragon 2026
A34-37
crashed near Port Stephens NSW 14.10.43
CRO
DH.84 Dragon 2028
A34-39

CRP
DH.89 Rapide
6270
A33-3

CRQ




CRR




CRS




CRT
Junkers G.31 (trimotor)
3010
A44-1
Impressed ex Guinea AW VH-UOW,
crashed on takeoff Essendon Vic 31.10.42


Wartime press photograph of Australian paratroops with DC-2 A30-9 VHCRK


RAAF DC-2 A30-12 VHCRF.                                                                     Australian War Memorial


DC-2 A30-14 had callsign VHCRH painted on the fuselage next to the serial when it had a landing accident
at Cooktown Qld on 17 September 1942. Seen dismantled ready to be sent by shipped to ANA for rebuild.
E.A.Crome Collection NLA


DH.89 Rapide A33-3 VHCRP being refuelled at Mount Eba SA 1943.             John Hopton collection


All RAAF
CSA
DH.90 Dragonfly       
7546
A43-1

CSB
DH.84 Dragon
6112
A34-5

CSC
DH.84 Dragon 6104
A34-11

CSD
DH.86B2360
A31-1
crashed on takeoff Kingaroy Qld 15.8.44
CSE
DH.86A 2313
A31-2
crashed Maryborough Qld 1.5.44
CSF
DH.84 Dragon (DHA) 2012
A34-23

CSG
DH.84 Dragon 2015
A34-26

CSH
DH.84 Dragon 2020
A34-31

CSIDH.84 Dragon
2027
A34-38

CSJDH.84 Dragon 2030
A34-41

CSK
DH.84 Dragon 2033
A34-44
crashed Berry Strip, New Guinea 25.7.43
CSL
DH.84 Dragon 2034
A34-45
crashed near Tennant Creek NT 1.4.43
CSM
DH.84 Dragon 2037
A34-48
crashed Parafield SA 11.3.43
CSN
DH.84 Dragon 2036
A34-47
missing Sydney-Wagga 15.4.43


Australian-built DH.84 Dragon A34-45 VHCSL at Mount Eba in the north of South Australia, a desert
refuelling stop on the Darwin-Adelaide air route.                                     John Hopton Collection


All RAAF Dakotas
CTA
Douglas C-47
6172
41-38713
A30-15
A65-1
Rec'd RAAF A30-15 at 3AD Amberley 11.2.43, new aircraft del from USA
to 36 Sqn 21.2.43 callsign VHDAA, serial changed c3.43 to A65-1,
callsign changed to VHCTA 11.5.43  The Arunta
log: Townsville-Sydney 8.7.44 Flt Lt Paul non-stop 7hr 20 mins
CTB (1
Douglas C-47
6149
41-38690
A30-16
(A65-2)
Rec'd RAAF A30-16 at 3AD Amberley 17.2.43, new aircraft del from USA
to 36 Sqn 6.3.43 callsign VHDAB, serial to be changed to A65-2,
crashed after takeoff Archerfield Qld 27.3.43 painted as A30-16 VHDAB,
All 23 RAAF, WAAF, Australian Army and US Army personnel killed
CTB (2
Douglas C-47A11973
A65-23

CTC (1
Douglas C-47 9012
42-32786
A30-17
A65-3
Rec'd RAAF A30-17 at 3AD Amberley 4.3.43, new aircraft del from USA
to 36 Sqn 4.3.43 callsign VHDAC, serial changed c3.43 to A65-3,
callsign changed to VHCTA 11.5.43
log: Milne Bay-Goodenough Island 25.8.43
ditched in sea near Horn Island Qld 14.12.43
CTC (2
Douglas C-47A11970
A65-21

CTD
Douglas C-47 9107
A65-4

CTE
Douglas C-47A 9285
A65-5
log: Milne Bay-Goodenough Island 30.6.43
CTF
Douglas C-47A 9287
A65-6
ditched in sea 19.9.45
CTG
Douglas C-47A 9288
A65-7
crashed on landing Tarakan, Borneo 17.8.45
CTH
Douglas C-47A 9289
A65-8
Slow Poke
CTI
Douglas C-47A 9286
A65-9

CTJ
Douglas C-47A 9591
A65-11

CTK
Douglas C-47A 9590
A65-10

CTL
Douglas C-47A 9593
A65-13

CTM
Douglas C-47A 9594
A65-14

CTN
Douglas C-47A 9592
A65-12

CTO (1
Douglas C-47A 9997
A65-15
struck mountain near Milne Bay, New Guinea 7.6.44
CTO (2
Douglas C-47A 13341
A65-53
brake failure ran into ditch Port Moresby, New Guinea 4.12.45
CTP
Douglas C-47A 9998
A65-16

CTQ
Douglas C-47A 9999
A65-17

CTR
Douglas C-47A 10000
A65-18
log: Tadji-Finschaffen 21.1.45 RAAF 33 Sqn
CTS
Douglas C-47A 10001
A65-19

CTT
Douglas C-47A 12037
A65-26

CTU
Douglas C-47A 11967
A65-20

CTV
Douglas C-47A 11971
A65-22

CTW
Douglas C-47A 11974
A65-24

CTX
Douglas C-47A12035
A65-25

CTY
Douglas C-47A12051
A65-27
ran off strip landing Lae, New Guinea 20.7.45
CTZ
Douglas C-47A12056
A65-29



A65-7 VHCTG at Tarakan, Borneo being stripped for parts August 1945 after running off the strip.
Neville Parnell collection


A65-21 VHCTC brings Australian servicemen home from the islands.     Australian War Memorial 116095


RAAF 34 Squadron Dakota A65-12 VHCTN supply dropping 1944.            Frank F. Smith collection          


All RAAF Dakotas
CUA
Douglas C-47A
12045
A65-28

CUB
Douglas C-47A 12076
A65-30

CUC
Douglas C-47A 12285
A65-31

CUD
Douglas C-47A
12360
A65-32

CUE
Douglas C-47A 12359
A65-33
crashed Wards Strip, Port Moresby 16.5.44
CUF
Douglas C-47A 12250
A65-34
crashed supply dropping near Tadji, New Guinea 19.2.44
CUG
Douglas C-47A 12349
A65-37
crashed on takeoff Nadzab, New Guinea 4.7.44
CUH
Douglas C-47A 12249
A65-38
crashed landing Hayfield Strip, New Guinea 12.9.45
CUI
Douglas C-47A 12252
A65-35

CUJ
Douglas C-47A 12248
A65-36

CUK
Douglas C-47A 12540
A65-41

CUL
Douglas C-47A 12541
A65-42

CUM
Douglas C-47A 12539
A65-40

CUN (1
Douglas C-47A 12542
A65-43

CUN (2
Douglas C-47A 25366
A65-58

CUO
Douglas C-47A 12875
A65-47
log: Finschaffen-Madang 8.7.45 RAAF 33 Sqn code BT-F
CUP
Douglas C-47A 13339
A65-54
struck mountain Jacquinot Bay, New Britain 15.11.45
CUQ
Douglas C-47A 13340
A65-55

CUR
Douglas C-47A 25367
A65-57

CUS
Douglas C-47B 25998
A65-60
log: Noemfor-Hollandia 12.1.45 RAAF 38 Sqn
CUT (1
Douglas C-47B 25364
A65-59

CUT (2
Douglas C-47B 25999
A65-61
struck mountain Wissel Lake, New Guinea 18.9.45
CUU
Douglas C-47B 26640
A65-64

CUV
Douglas C-47B 26637
A65-65

CUW
Douglas C-47B26639
A65-66

CUX
Douglas C-47B26638
A65-67

CUY
Douglas C-47B27130
A65-68

CUZ
Douglas C-47B27127
A65-69



A65-30 VHCUB in 1945 with RAAF 36 Squadron code FD-U.                            Frank F. Smith collection


A65-32 VHCUD with RAAF 33 Squadron code BT-D circa 1946.             Frank F. Smith collection


A65-39 VH-CUH with the "H"repeated behind the cockpit.                           Frank F. Smith collection


A65-42 with RAAF 34 Squadron, callsign painted as "VHC-UL".                         Frank F. Smith collection


RAAF 38 Squadron A65-66 VHCUW with "UW" painted on the nose.            Frank F. Smith collection


RAAF Auster 3 being unloaded from Dakota A65-68 VHCUY at Labuan, Borneo 1945.                  AWM


(CWA)
Douglas B-18
1726
36-338
arrived Darwin 22.12.41 from Manila via Tarakan, Balkpapan, Makassar. Koepang;
shot down by two Japanese A6Ms near Sedajce, Java 3.2.42
pilot Major Joseph A.Burch plus 6 killed
CWA (2
Douglas C-53
4840
41-20070
ex VHCDV Nath Nikka/Dipsey Doodle,
to RAAF 6.43-4.44 Wonga Will, to QEA 4.44 (27 pax),
log: Archerfield-Rockhampton-Townsville 21.8.44 QEA Cpt Ashley
returned to USAAF 7.46, to Clark Field for disposal
CWB
Douglas B-18
1877
37-16
departed Manila 19.12.41 with B-18 36-343, both arrived Darwin 22.12.41, both flew .50 cal ammunition supply runs from Amberley to Philippines and Java;
by 6.42 personal aircraft General Connell, Townsville Goober Dust
log: Eagle Farm-Amberley-Archerfield-Eagle Farm 11.6.44;
log: Eagle Farm-Mascot 11.7.44, return next day;
log: Eagle Farm-Mascot-Eagle Farm 2.8.44;
log: Eagle Farm-Mascot-Fishermans Bend-Mascot 27.11.44;
log: Mascot-Eagle Farm 28.11.44
Still in service in Brisbane 1945
CWC
Douglas B-18



CW?
Martin 139WH-3A
843
M585
NEI Army Air Force, evacuation flight Andir-Broome 8.3.42 by
Lt. P.J.P.Erkel and Lt..A.B.Wolff;
purchased by USAAC in Australia 8.4.42 with the NEIAF L18s due interchangeable engines, but operated as a transport as type RB-10 with temporary serial 42-68358 and callsign reportedly in CW series.
Miss Latrine of 1930
log: B-10 585 test flight Mascot 24.7.43 after repair of belly landing
log: Mascot-Archerfield 14.8.43 ferry to 81st Air Depot Eagle Farm
USAAF records: stored Archerfield 4.44, written-off 31.8.44 as salvaged obsolete.


C-53 VHCWA at Archerfield Qld while on loan to Qantas in 1945.                Geoff Goodall collection


VHCWA field number "W0070" (41-20070) and Guinea Airways Lodestar VHCAC "W2104" at Hollandia,
Dutch New Guinea (now Jayapura) on courier runs in 1945.                      David Vincent collection


B-18 37-16 with nose art at Parafield early 1942 while being operated by USAAC 22Troop Carrier Squadron.
Photo by Alan Betteridge via Civil Aviation Historical Society


B-18 VHCWB at Iron Range strip on Cape York Peninsula Queensland 1942.     Bob Livingstone collection


General Connell's B-18 VHCWB over Brisbane 1943, nose art "Gober Dust".    Bob Livingstone collection


This view of VHCWB "Goober Dust", probably at Townsville, appeared in the book "The 81st ADG".
courtesy David Vincent


Unidentified B-18 "Dmfingo" at Townsville. This could have been VHCWC.


Another unidentified ex Philippines B-18 was this aircraft with "6" on tail and nose, at Essendon early 1942.
Ron Larsen collection, Civil Aviation Historical Society


NEI refugee Martin 139WH bomber M585 used by USAAC in Australia as a transport. It  reportedly had
a callsign in the VHCW series, but so far unconfirmed.                        Bob Livingstone collection


CXA
Douglas DC-5
428
PK-ADB
destroyed on ground by Japanese air raid Seven Mile Drome,
Port Moresby 17.8.42
CXB
Douglas DC-5 424
PK-ADC
crashed in forced landing 30 miles east Charleville Qld 6.11.42
CXC
Douglas DC-5 426
PK-ADD
to ANA 12.42, leased by ANA 5.44 for civilian services
CXD
Douglas DC-3 1941
PK-ALT
evacuation flight from NEI 4.3.42
leased to USAAC Australia 28.3.42 temporary serial "11941"
Handed over to USAAF 15.5.42 assigned 374 Troop Carrier Group Archerfield as VHCXD Holey Joe
Damaged enemy action Wards Strip Port Moresby 17.8.42
Damaged Cooktown Qld 23.9.42
to CAC Fishermans Bend 10-11.42 to replace right passenger door with right side cargo door,
del. to ANA Archerfield 7.12.42,
pilot log: Brisbane-Moresby return 12-13.5.44;
crashed struck trees on approach to Higgins Field, Cape York Qld 5.5.45 carrying fresh meat for Port Moresby, ANA Captain W.E.Clarke, RAAF copilot W/Off W.Hornibrooke, 2 RAAF crew and 2 USAAF pax all killed;
wreck still present as wartime memorial site
CXE (1
Douglas DC-3 1944
PK-ALW
final evacuation flight from NEI 7.3.42: KNILM Cpt Eddy Dunlop took off from a road near Bandoeng after midnight, landed at Port Hedland, Western Australia after 7hrs 32 min flight
log: PK-ALW Archerfield-Townsville 25.3.42
Handed over to USAAC at Archerfield 15.5.42 with temporary serial "11944", assigned 374 Troop Carrier Group Archerfield as VHCXE.
pilot log: Cairns-Mareeba-Port Moresby 28.6.42 escorting 19 P-39s;
7.42 assigned General MacArthur's GHQ Melbourne, 7 pax seats
to RAAF as VHCXL 8.43
CXE (2
Douglas C-47A 9283
42-23421
Shiny Sheila, replaced VHCXE (1 for MacArthur 5.43,
operating SWPA GHQ courier Manila-Tolosa by 3.45
CXF
Douglas DC-2
1375
PK-AFK
crashed Charters Towers Qld 22.6.42
CXG
Douglas DC-2 1376
PK-AFL
sold to ANA for civil use 10.43, registered VH-ADZ
CXH
Lockheed 14
1411
PK-AFM
wrecked forced landing near Katherine NT 26.3.42
CXI
Lockheed 14
1414
PK-AFN
to Guinea AW 4.43,  crashed on takeoff Alice Springs NT 13.2.44
CXJ
Lockheed 14 1442
PK-AFP
to Guinea AW 3.44, retired Parafield SA, sold as scrap, moved to house Adelaide suburb Prospect, for planned conversion of fuselage to a caravan, not done, remained in back garden, scrapped 1972
CXK
Lockheed 14 1443
PK-AFQ
crashed landing at Rockhampton Qld 7.10.42, destroyed by fire.
22TCS, all 10 on board escaped, but with burns.
Location confirmed, previously reported as Cooktown Qld.
CXL (1
Douglas DC-3 1944
PK-ALW
ex VHCXE (1, to RAAF 8.43-3.44, to ANA 4.44,
minor damage landing RAAF Laverton 12.4.44 carrying engines,
ANA Cpt S.G.Hack, ferried Essendon for repair, returned to service 4.4.44;
ret. USAAF 1.46
log: Brisbane-Townsville 28.9.45 ANA Cpt F.M.Griggs
CXL (2
Douglas C-47A 19950
43-15484
assigned General MacArthur staff .43;
to ANA 2.46, returned to USAAF .46
CXM
Douglas C-47A
19923
43-15457
assigned General Prentice, written-off 12.44 due accident

Effective 14 June 1944 an administrative exercise was conducted by USAAF to cover the acquisition of the KNILM airline aircraft in Australia in 1942:  USAAF type designations and 1944 Fiscal Year serial numbers were allotted. Some of these aircraft had been written off in accidents prior to this official exercise to formally bring them on USAAF charge. The USAAF serials were never painted on any of these aircraft.
Type
c/n
civil reg
radio callsign
USAAF type
USAAF serial number
DC-5
428
PK-ADB
VHCXA
C-110-DE
44-83230
DC-5
424
PK-ADC
VHCXB
C-110-DE44-83231
DC-5
426
PK-ADD
VHCXC
C-110-DE44-83232
DC-3
1941
PK-ALT
VHCXD
C-49H-DO
44-83228
DC-3
1944
PK-ALW
VHCXE, CXL
C-49H-DO
44-83229
DC-2
1375
PK-AFK
VHCXF
C-32A
44-83226
DC-2
1376
PK-AFL
VHCXG
C-32A
44-83227
Lockheed 14
1414
PK-AFN
VHCXI
C-111-LO
44-83233
Lockheed 141442
PK-AFP
VHCXJ
C-111-LO
44-83234
Lockheed 141443
PK-AFQ
VHCXK
C-111-LO
44-83235


KNILM DC-5 taken over by USAAC in Australia as VHCXA on a supply dropping mission in New Guinea.
Photo: Australian War Memorial


Wards Strip, Port Moresby 17 August 1942 after a Japanese attack. DC-5 VHCXA burns while DC-3 VHCXD with
right hand passenger door is hurriedly unloaded.           Photo: Damien Parer, via Dayton Daily News Archives


DC-5 VHCXB departs Seven Mile Strip, Port Moresby in July 1942.                         John Hopton Collection


DC-5 VHCXC on handover to ANA at Archerfield Qld in December 1942 with hand-painted USAAC star
and early fleet numbering system "14" under the cockpit.                             Geoff Goodall collection


Archerfield 1944 now metallic finish with"ANA" on the nose.                             David Carter collection


DC-3 VHCXD at Fishermans Bend, Melbourne November 1942 for repairs by Commonwealth Aircraft Corporation and
having the right side passenger door replaced by a right side cargo door.              Photo: CAC via David Anderson
DC-3 VHCXD at Port Moresby 1943, operated by Australian National Airways, showing signs of the metal work
carried out by CAC to install a right side cargo door                                               Australian War Memorial


The wreck of VHCXD at Higgins Field, far north Queensland (now Bamaga Airport) in 1980s.                 Stan Gajda

DC-3 PK-ALW in Australia circa May 1942 before being taken over by USAAC.       Fred Niven collection


PK-ALW now painted as VHCXE in rough camouflage with "12" under the cockpit.   MacArthur Memorial Museum
This 1942 view shows the rough repainting of VHCXE in 1942 and the right hand door.

The second VHCXE, metallic finish C-47A "Shiny Sheila", General Douglas MacArthur's personal aircraft from May 1943.
MacArthur is centre, with Australian Prime Minister John Curtin on his left.                  John Hopton Collection

Guinea Airways Lockheed 14 VHCXI at home base Parafield SA circa 1943 with early USAAF star without side bars.
This and next photo: Civil Aviation Historical Society Allan Betteridge Collection

 Lockheed 14 VHCXI at Parafield circa 1943 showing the pack donkey nose art.    


Two views of Guinea Airways' VHCXI after its takeoff crash at Alice Springs NT on 13 February 1944.
Both: John Hopton Collection




Lockheed 14 VHCXJ in an Adelaide suburban backyard in June 1966, the two wings were stacked nearby
still with US ARMY on the the undersurfaces.                                    Photos by Geoff Goodall


VHCXJ had "Guines Airways Ltd" on the nose and USAAF 5th Air Force field number "W34"


DC-3 VHCXL with ANA airline name above the windows and Field Nunber "W1944" (c/n 1944).
Queensland Air Museum

DCA "X" series of Certificates of Airworthiness:
         The October 1942 Directorate of Air Transport arrangement to lease US military aircraft to Australian civil airlines presented a dilema for the Department of Civil Aviation. Since the war had come to Australia earlier that year the senior officers of the Department had displayed admirable flexibility in supporting the involvement of civil aircraft and aircrew in the military effort.
        But now Australian airlines were to operate new aircraft types such as Douglas DC-5, C-39 and Lockheed Lodestar, which had not been through the established lengthy type certification process. Anxious to avoid delaying the airline arrangement, DCA promptly implemented a compromise, a "Special CofA series" for military charter aircraft without Australian Certificates of Registration. It was given a separate numbering system from standard Australian CofAs, with numbers prefixed by "X".  Like so many aspects of the Directorate era, no official paperwork has been found covering the DCA policy and specific requirements of this Special CofA Series.
       The following listing made up by the compiler is based on individual aircraft records. No official listing has been located.

CofA No.
Callsign VH
Type
C/n
previous id
CofA issued
Operator
Postwar civilianised as
X1
CAK
Lockheed L.18
2129
LT925
2.11.42
QEA

X2
CAJ
Lockheed L.18
2128
LT924
2.11.42
ANA

X3
CXD
Douglas DC-3
1941
PK-ALT
11.12.42
ANA

X4
CAC
Lockheed L.18 2104
LT909
16.11.42
Guinea AW
VH-ARY Aircrafts Pty Ltd
X5
CXC
Douglas DC-5
426
PK-ADD
25.12.42
ANA
VH-ARD ANA
X6
CAB
Lockheed L.18 2103
LT908
1.1.43
QEA

X7
CAA
Lockheed L.18 2102
LT907
28.1.43
QEA
VH-ARZ Aircrafts Pty Ltd
X8
CCH
Douglas C-39
2089
38-532
5.6.43
ANA
VH-ARC ANA
X9
CXI
Lockheed L.14
1414
PK-AFN
11.5.43
Guinea AW

X10
CAF
Lockheed L.18 2121
LT917
4.6.43
ANA

X11
CCG
Douglas C-39
2076
38-519
7.7.43
ANA
VH-ARB ANA
X12
CEC
Lockheed C-60 2192
42-32172
22.7.43
ANA

X13
CEH
Lockheed C-60
2196
42-32176
15.7.43


X14
CCF
Douglas C-39
2087
38-530
1.1.44
ANA
VH-ARA ntu ANA
X15
CEE
Lockheed C-60
2194
42-32174
3.44
Guinea AW
VH-BAG Aircrafts Pty Ltd
X16
CXL (1
Douglas DC-3
1944
PK-ALW
1.4.44
ANAVH-ANR ANA
X17
CXJ
Lockheed L.14
1442
PK-AFP
22.3.44
Guinea AW

X18
CDK
Douglas C-50
4119
41-7697
5.44

VH-ANI ANA
X19
CDB (1
Douglas C-49
3272
41-7687
5.44

VH-ANN ANA
X20
CDC (1
Douglas C-49A
3282
41-7690
4.5.44
ANA

X21
CDD (1
Douglas C-49B
4094
41-7691
4.44

VH-ANO ANA
X22
CDE (1
Douglas C-49B4096
41-7693
22.4.44

VH-ANP ANA
X23
CDG (1
Douglas C-49
3271
41-7686
22.4.44

VH-ANQ ANA
X24
CWA
Douglas C-53
4840
41-20070
21.4.44
QEA

X25
CDL
Douglas C-47A
19920
43-15454
5.44
QEA

X26
CDM
Douglas C-47A19902
43-15436
5.44
QEA

X27
CCC
Douglas C-53
4824
41-20054
30.7.44


X28
CDJ
Douglas C-50
4120
41-7698
7.44

VH-ANH ANA
X29
CCB
Douglas C-53
4823
41-20053
17.7.44


X30
CDH
Douglas C-47
6010
41-18649
8.45
ANA
VH-ANS ANA
X31
CDC (2
Douglas C-47A9906
43-24044
1.46
ANA

X32
CDB (2
Douglas C-47B20665
43-16199
23.1.46
ANA

X33
CDD (2
Douglas C-47A9765
42-23903
1.46
ANA

X34
CDE (2
Douglas C-47B27016
43-49755
2.46
ANA

X35
CXL (2
Douglas C-47A
19950
43-15484
15.2.46
ANA
VH-BHB Silver City


Endpiece:
1. This late 1944 aerial photograph of a corner of the sprawling Garbutt Field, Townsville shows a Douglas B-18 at top centre right. It is almost certainly VHCWB which was based at Townsville assigned to Brigadeer General Connell, CO of 5th Air Force Service Command.


A corner of Garbutt Field, Townsville Queensland late 1944.                                      Geoff Goodall collection

2. Where did all the USAAF C-47s go? 
Many early model Douglas C-47s in Australia were ferried back to the United States during 1944-45 for disposal to civil buyers through the US Government Reconstruction Finance Corporation. Others went north with MacArthur's island-hopping campaign to regain the Philippines and attack Japan.  The majority of those remaining in the SWPA at the end of the Pacific war were ferried to Philippines where they were assembled at Clark Field near Manila and Tacloban. Many hundreds of USAAF aircraft were parked, pending disposal by the US Foreign Liquidation Commission at Manila. Airlines, charter companies and even other air forces competed to  purchase the transport aircraft at low prices to start post-war civil operations. Most Australian airline DC-3s came from the Clark Field disposals.


Clark Field, Philippines late 1946 with surplus USAAF wartime aircraft for disposal.                   John Hopton Collection


PART TWO
VHD.. and VHR.. World War II radio callsign series

References:
- Listings compiled by Alan Bovelt, Doug Hart, Neville Parnell, Trevor Boughton, Melvyn Davis, David Vincent
- Additional information from Ron Cuskelly, Nigel Daw, Bob Livingstone, Barrie Colledge, Bruce Hoy, Mark Pilkington
- RAAF Airframe Record Cards form E/E.88: RAAF Historical
- Netherlands East Indies Air Force (ML-KNIL) information based on research papers by Dutch historian Peter C.Boer
- Man and Aerial Machines, quarterly journal, editor T.W.Boughton: SWPA Transport Callsigns discussion
- Allied Air Transport Operations South West Pacific Area WWII, Bob Kelly, Vols 1,2,3 2003-2008
- There and Back, Alan Randall
- Flight Back From The North, J. Noel Tunny
- Gateway to Victory, J. Noel Tunny
- 374th Troop Carrier Group, Colonel Edward T. Imparto
- History of the Directorate of Air Transport, Allied Air Forces SWPA and 322 Troop Carrier Wing, Major William H. Carleton USAAF


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