Grumman HU-16B 'Albatross'
The HU-16 was the largest twin engine amphibian built by Grumman Aircraft. The USAF ordered 297 aircraft for use in the air-sea rescue role, as the 'Albatross' was able to operate from land, water, and snow and ice when fitted with skis. The prototype made its first flight on October 24, 1947. In the Korean and Vietnam Wars it was credited with hundreds of saves, and besides the USAF, it also saw service with the U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Navy, and 22 foreign countries. The original designation for the 'Albatross' was SA-16, and the -B model was the result of a 16-1/2 foot increase in the wing span. In 1962 the designation was changed to HU-16, and in Coast Guard service the HU-16B was known as the HU-16E.
USAF S/N 51-7209 is a HU-16B, one of 464 built by Grumman Aircraft in Bethpage, New York. It was delivered to the USAF on July 16, 1953 and assigned to the 1707th Training Squadron (MATS), Palm Beach, Florida. In May, 1959 it was deployed to Brookley AFB, Alabama; and in March, 1960 it was sent for storage at Davis-Monthan AFB, Arizona. In April, 1961 it was transferred to the U.S. Coast Guard and assigned to CG Station Port Angelus, Washington. Its last two assignments were CG Station Corpus Christi, Texas in August, 1975; and CG Station Traverse City, Michigan in March, 1978. In October 1978 it was flown to Luke AFB, Arizona for display, and on March 28, 1988 it was carried by a C-5 to McClellan AFB for restoration and display in the museum. It was restored by the CG Station McClellan AFB, and bears Coast Guard markings.
SPECIFICATIONS:
Crew: Two pilots, navigator, radio operator and two medical attendants.
Power Plants: Two 1,425 hp Wright R-1820-76A or -76B radial engines.
Dimensions:
Span: 96 ft 8 in.
Length: 61 ft 3 in.
Height: 25 ft 10 in.
Weight: Empty - 22,883 lbs. Gross - 32,000 lbs.
Performance:
Max. Speed: 236 mph at 18,800 ft.
Service Ceiling: 25,000 ft.
Range: 3,220 miles.
