Grumman HU-16B Albatross
Grumman · United States · first flew 1947 · transport aircraft
The Grumman HU-16 Albatross is a large American twin-engine amphibious flying boat used extensively for search and rescue and maritime patrol.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | High-mounted, straight |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 2 × piston, wing-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 19.18 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Large twin-engine amphibious flying boat
- High straight wing with radial engines
- Fixed wingtip floats
Large high-wing flying boat with a deep hull, fixed under-wing floats, two radial engines, and a boat-tail stern with a conventional tail unit.
Specifications
- The Grumman HU-16B Albatross has a length of 19.18 m (63 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 29.46 m (97 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 380 km/h (236 mph).
- Typical crew: 4-6.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
The Albatross first flew in 1947 and entered service with the USAF and US Navy in various configurations. It served prominently during the Korean and Vietnam Wars as a search and rescue platform, capable of open-ocean landings to recover downed aircrew.
Variants
Variants include the SA-16A (original USAF), UF-1 (US Navy), HU-16A, and the improved HU-16B with increased wing span; export models served with numerous allied air forces.
Where you'll see it
Operated by the USAF, US Navy, US Coast Guard, and many allied nations including Greece and Japan; some remained in civilian use as late as the 2000s.
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