Code: NC10183

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia:

The Grumman HU-16 Albatross is an improvement of the design of the Grumman Mallard, the Albatross was developed to land in open ocean situations to rescue downed pilots. It is a large twin-radial engine amphibious flying boat, originally designated SA-16, it was renamed HU-16 in 1962.

Its deep-V cross-section and substantial length enable it to land in the open sea. The Albatross was designed for optimal 4 ft seas, and could land in more severe conditions, but required JATO for takeoff in 8-10 ft seas or greater.

Since the aircraft weighs over 12,500 pounds, pilots of US-registered Albatross aircraft must have a type rating. There is a yearly Albatross fly-in at Boulder City, Nevada where Albatross pilots can become type rated.

The HU-16 was also operated by the U.S. Coast Guard as both a coastal and long-range open ocean SAR aircraft for many years until it was supplanted by the HU-25 Guardian and HC-130 Hercules. The final Navy HU-16 flight was made 13 August 1976 when an Albatross was delivered to the Naval Aviation Museum at NAS Pensacola.