Sikorsky S-41

Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation · United States · first flew 1930 · transport aircraft

The Sikorsky S-41 was a twin-engine amphibian flying boat used for passenger and utility work in the early 1930s. It represented an evolution of Igor Sikorsky's earlier S-38 design with improved capacity and aerodynamics.

Recognition (WEFT)

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Spot it by:

• Twin-engine amphibian flying boat of the early 1930s
• Parasol wing braced above the hull
• Fixed undercarriage sponsons on the hull for water operations

A compact twin-engine amphibian with the characteristic Sikorsky braced parasol wing, twin pusher or tractor engines, and an enclosed passenger cabin in the hull below.

Specifications

• The Sikorsky S-41 has a length of 13.41 m (44 ft).
• It has a wingspan of 20.42 m (67 ft).
• Its maximum speed is 198 km/h (123 mph).
• Typical crew: 2, plus 8 passengers.

Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.

History

Developed as an enlarged successor to the popular S-38, the S-41 entered service around 1931 and was operated by Pan American Airways on Caribbean and South American routes. A small number were built, with the type serving briefly before being supplanted by larger flying boats such as the Sikorsky S-42.

Variants

Only a handful of S-41s were built with no significant sub-variants; individual aircraft differed in engine fit between Pratt & Whitney Hornet and Wasp powerplants.

Where you'll see it

Operated by Pan American Airways and a small number of private and military customers in the early 1930s.

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