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  DH.83 Fox Moth "Irene" Registration VH-UUS Serial Number A41-3
RAAF
2 AAU

Former Assignments
Qantas Empire Airways
Mandated Airlines Ltd


ADF Serials c1936-1943

Aircraft History
Built by de Havilland at Stag Lane, Edgeware, Middlesex in the United Kingdom as as DH.83 Fox Moth. Constructors Number 4044. The aircraft made its first flight at Stag Lane on February 7, 1933. Registered in the UK as G-ACCS. In 1936 sold to Mandated Airlines Ltd. disassembled and shipped to New Guinea.

On July 8, 1936 registered as VH-UUS in Australia. In 1937 nicknamed "Irene". On September 3, 1937, took off from Ioma Airfield piloted by Norman D. Fader and force landed at Pancake Strip, pilot unhurt in the crash. Afterwards, this plane was repaired.

Wartime History
On January 21, 1942 this aircraft was one of the few civilian planes that was not damaged or destroyed by the Japanese air raid against Lae. Afterwards, used to evacuate civilians from Wau Airfield to Port Moresby.

On February 1, 1942, the aircraft was used to evacuate Mr Fred J. Howard from Wau then flew to Ioma Airfield were Sgt Richards and Sgt McCallum who survived the ditching of Hudson A16-106 were flown to Port Moresby.

Afterwards, this Fox Moth continued to make evacuation flights from Wau to Port Moresby until February 10, 1942 when flown via Horn Island Airfield to Australia. On June 26, 1942 assigned to Qantas Empire Airways (QEA).

On August 8, 1943 impressed into service with the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) as Fox Moth serial number A41-3. Assigned to No. 2 Air Ambulance Unit (2 AAU).

Post War
During December 1945, this aircraft was offered for sale as part of military disposals. On February 20, 1946 sold to the Federal Methodist Inland Mission for £250. On December 24, 1947 returned to the civil register as VH-UUS. On March 31, 1964 registered as VH-CCH. On December 6, 1965 damaged at Barney View in Queensland.

Fate
Afterwards, this aircraft was destroyed in a bush fire at Geary's Gap in ACT.

Wreckage
The remains of this aircraft are reportedly under restoration in the Mothcair Hangar at Murwillumbah, NSW.

References
DH.83 Fox Moths in Australia
ADF Serials - Fox Moth A41-3
Thanks to Daniel Leahy for additional information

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Last Updated
April 15, 2023

 

Tech Info
Fox Moth
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