IJN


Justin Taylan 2003

Wartime History
Abandoned or sunk along Poporang Island at the Shortland Harbor Seaplane Base.

Wreckage
Cockpit, fuselage intact up to the tail. The wing, engines and floats are also present. The wings have fallen forward, and the engines dropped downward.  The waist is mangled, possibly from sinking.

Justin Taylan adds:
"This is an enormous airplane wreck.  I snorkeled the wreck, and the guide wires are still present on the wings, and wing floats. It is a spectacular site. In September 2003 the nose and cockpit were intact. In October 2005, they had broken apart. It was unclear if it was natural wave action or caused by humans."

References
Pacific Aircraft Wrecks page 49 (upper, middle right)

Contribute Information

Mavis

15 - 35'

Photo Archive