Sikorsky XPBS-1

Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation · United States · first flew 1937 · transport aircraft

The Sikorsky XPBS-1 was a large four-engine patrol flying boat prototype evaluated by the US Navy in 1937 as a candidate for long-range maritime patrol duties. It competed against the Boeing 314 and Consolidated designs for both naval and commercial flying boat contracts.

Recognition (WEFT)

W — Wings	High-mounted, tapered
E — Engines	4 × piston, wing-mounted
F — Fuselage	27.13 m fuselage
T — Tail	Conventional

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Four-engine long-range patrol flying boat prototype
Competed with Boeing 314 for Pan Am and Navy contracts
Large elegant 1930s flying boat with single-step hull

A large four-engine high-wing flying boat with a conventional tail and elegant hull lines characteristic of 1930s Sikorsky design; the four-engine arrangement and large size distinguish it from contemporary two- and three-engine types.

Specifications

The Sikorsky XPBS-1 has a length of 27.13 m (89 ft).
It has a wingspan of 40.23 m (132 ft).
Its maximum speed is 322 km/h (200 mph).
Typical crew: 9.

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

History

Sikorsky proposed the XPBS-1 in response to a US Navy requirement for a large, long-range patrol flying boat capable of transoceanic patrols. Although it demonstrated good performance, the Navy ultimately selected the Boeing 314 for the commercial role and the Consolidated XPBY for the patrol role.

Variants

Only one XPBS-1 prototype was built; it did not enter production.

Where you'll see it

Evaluated by the US Navy at Anacostia Naval Air Station in 1937-38; not placed in service after the evaluation.

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