Overflight of B-17 'Swamp Ghost'
by Clive Collins, October 1973

"I flew over this aircraft in October 1973 and took some photos. I was accompanied by the pilot of the Macair plane Jeff Newton, and my colleague Dr Jack Webb. We were undertaking a large scale geophysical survey of East Papua and were flying from Popondetta to Tufi to drop off some supplies when our pilot, who's name I unfortunately can't recall, mentioned this aircraft had recently been located and offered to fly us over it, which we eagerly agreed to. It was certainly a marvellous sight. We flew over a seemingly endless sea of Kunai grass, when we suddenly noticed a tailfin sticking out ahead. As we approached, the whole aircraft became apparent, and from our vantage
point it looked to be remarkably intact. We circled around it at low altitude several times which gave me the opportunity to take the photos. I had often wondered what had become of it. I hope there is a happy ending to the story and that it is appropriately preserved. I also hope all the souvenired bits will be returned one day."