No fatalities

Three-Engine Aircraft Damaged Beyond Repair After Tailwind Landing Excursion (VH-BUU)

Baiyer River, Papua New GuineaLanding (descent or approach)

On October 17, 1959, a Junkers JU.52 (registration VH-BUU) operated by Gibbes Sepik Airways was involved in an aviation accident near Baiyer River, Papua New Guinea during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 5 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

A three-engine aircraft veered off the airstrip after a high tailwind landing, struck an embankment, and suffered undercarriage shear-off. No injuries were reported, but the aircraft was damaged beyond repair.

Incident Overview

A three-engine aircraft experienced a runway excursion during landing after touching down with a high tailwind component. The aircraft veered off the airstrip and subsequently struck an embankment. The impact caused the undercarriage to be sheared off, and the airplane came to rest on its belly.

Damage and Injuries

Despite the severity of the impact, there were no injuries among the occupants. However, the aircraft sustained damage beyond repair, resulting in a total loss.

The incident highlights the challenges of landing with a significant tailwind, which can affect directional control and stopping performance.