Grumman HU-16 Albatross

Grumman HU-16 Albatross

Description

The Grumman HU-16 Albatross is a large, twin-radial engined amphibious flying boat that was used by the United States Air Force (USAF), the U.S. Navy (USN), the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), and the Royal Canadian Air Force primarily as a search and rescue (SAR) aircraft. Originally designated as the SA-16 for the USAF and the JR2F-1 and UF-1 for the USN and USCG, it was redesignated as the HU-16 in 1962.
Equipment Specifications
Year1951
ManufacturerGrumman
ModelHU-16 Albatross
Registration NumberN99TP
LocationFrederick Municipal Airport
Detailed Information
Detailed Description
An improvement of the design of the Grumman Mallard, the Albatross was developed to land in open-ocean situations to accomplish rescues. Its deep-V hull cross-section and keel length enable it to land in the open sea. The Albatross was designed for optimal 4-foot seas, and could land in more severe conditions, but required JATO (jet-assisted takeoff, or simply booster rockets) for takeoff in 8–10-foot seas or greater.
Engine Specs
Wright R-1820 Series
Today in Aviation History