Grumman HU-16A Albatross
Grumman · United States · first flew 1949 · transport aircraft
The HU-16A Albatross (originally SA-16A) is the initial production variant of Grumman's large amphibious flying boat, designed for open-ocean search-and-rescue and used extensively by the USAF Air Rescue Service.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | High-mounted, straight |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 2 × piston, wing-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 18.67 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Original USAF search-and-rescue Albatross with shorter-span wings than HU-16B
- Twin Wright R-1820 radials on gull-shaped high wing above boat hull
- Retractable tricycle gear, hull step, stabilising floats under outer wings
The broad boat hull with pronounced step, gull high wing, twin radial cowlings, and retractable undercarriage stored in hull sponsons are classic Albatross features; the HU-16A's shorter wing is subtle compared with the -B.
Specifications
- The Grumman HU-16A Albatross has a length of 18.67 m (61 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 28.96 m (95 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
Grumman designed the Model G-64 Albatross to meet a post-war US Navy requirement for a large ocean-going rescue amphibian, with the prototype flying in October 1947. The production SA-16A entered USAF service in 1949 and saw extensive use during the Korean War in combat rescue missions. Redesignated HU-16A in 1962 under the new US tri-service designation system.
Variants
The HU-16A had a shorter wingspan than the improved HU-16B; the US Navy operated the UF-1 and UF-2 variants, while many NATO nations received examples under MDAP.
Where you'll see it
Served with USAF Air Rescue Service worldwide, including Korea and later Southeast Asia; also operated by the US Coast Guard (UF-1G) and numerous allied air forces.
Related aircraft
- Grumman CSR-110 Albatross
- Grumman HU-16 Albatross
- Grumman HU-16C Albatross
- Grumman HU-16E Albatross
- Beriev Be-6
- Douglas C-124 Globemaster II
- Douglas C-124C Globemaster II
- Fairchild C-119C Flying Boxcar
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