Westernair Grumman SA-16 Albatross

Additional Information:

The Grumman HU-16 Albatross is a large, twin–radial engine amphibious seaplane that was used by the United States Air Force (USAF), the United States Navy (USN), along with the United States Coast Guard (USCG), as a search and rescue aircraft. The Albatross was originally designated the SA-16 for the USAF, the JR2F-1 for the USN, and the UF-1 for the USCG. It was re-designated the HU-16 for all services in 1962.

The Albatross, an improvement to the design of the Grumman Mallard, was developed to land in the water to accomplish rescues. With its deep-V hull cross-section and keel length, the Albatross was able it to land on the open sea.

Most Albatrosses were used by the USAF and was deployed extensively in Korea for combat rescue, where it earned a reputation as a rugged and seaworthy aircraft. The Albatross was operated primarily by the USAF’s Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Service and also saw extensive combat service during the Vietnam War.

Many surplus Albatrosses were sold to civilian operators and private owners. These aircraft were operated under either Experimental-Exhibition or Restricted category and cannot be used for commercial operations, except under very limited conditions.

In 1990, Richard “Dick” Durand of Westernair in Albuqueque New Mexico purchased and restored this Grumman SA-16 Albatross aircraft and painted it to look like a US Coast Guard aircraft. This plane had the name “Rio Grande Yacht Club” painted on the side. Westernair bought and sold at least three SA-16s during their years in business.

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