Grumman HU-16C Albatross

Grumman · United States · first flew 1949 · transport aircraft

The HU-16C Albatross is the US Navy's designation (from 1962) for the earlier UF-1 utility transport variant of the Grumman Albatross amphibian, used for personnel transport and search-and-rescue duties.

Recognition (WEFT)

W — Wings	High-mounted, straight
E — Engines	2 × piston, wing-mounted
F — Fuselage	18.67 m fuselage
T — Tail	Conventional

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Spot it by:

US Navy utility transport Albatross variant designated UF-1 before 1962
Twin R-1820 radials, boat hull with step, retractable amphibious gear
Gull-shaped high wing, stabilising floats under outer wing panels

Essentially identical in silhouette to the USAF HU-16A; US Navy markings and the utility-transport role configuration (fewer rescue fittings) are the main distinguishing features.

Specifications

The Grumman HU-16C 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

The US Navy operated the Albatross under the designation UF-1 from 1949, using it for fleet utility transport, VIP movement, and search-and-rescue. Under the 1962 tri-service designation revision, UF-1s were redesignated HU-16C. The type served US Navy utility squadrons (VR and HU) until progressively replaced by helicopters and turboprop aircraft.

Variants

The HU-16C (ex-UF-1) was followed by the HU-16D (ex-UF-2) with extended wingspan; both served in parallel in different roles.

Where you'll see it

Operated by US Navy utility and rescue squadrons at Naval Air Stations in the continental US, Hawaii, and overseas bases throughout the 1950s and 1960s.

Related aircraft

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