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    Malahang Airfield Morobe Province Papua New Guinea (PNG)
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5th AF c42 -43

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AWM c1943

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RAAF March 4, 1943
Location
Located about two miles due east of Lae, near the Busu River at the edge of the Malahang. Also known as "Malahang Drome". Today located in Morobe Province in Papua New Guinea (PNG).

Construction
Built prior to the war. During 1942 the single runway was 800 x 75 x 50 yards, and could be lengthened. Had good approaches over coconut plantation. Facilities included three European houses, copra sheds, can be lengthened.

Wartime History
On March 8, 1942 occupied by the Japanese when they landed at Malahang. Used by the Japanese as an auxiliary to Lae Airfield. During the Battle of the Bismarck Sea, Malahang Airfield was used by Japanese Army Air Force (JAAF) Ki-43-I Oscars. On March 4, 1943 several were destroyed on the ground by RAAF Beaufighters from 30 Squadron strafing the area.

Allied missions against Malahang Airfield
January 17, 1943–September 6, 1943

During the middle of September 1943, liberated by the Australian Army. Afterwards, this airfield was never repaired or expanded by the Allies.

Ki-43-I Oscar Manufacture Number 239
Captured at the airfield by the Allies in September 1943

Today
Disused since the Pacific War.

References
Notes about New Guinea airfields, recorded circa May - July, 1942 by Oliver C. Doan via Jean Doan research Edward Rogers

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Last Updated
April 19, 2021

 

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