Grumman Albatross

Grumman HU-16C Albatross

Ladies and gentlemen, feast your eyes on this legendary 1955 Grumman HU-16C Albatross, US Navy Bureau No 141262, a true aviation marvel with a rich history! Designed as an amphibious aircraft, this versatile machine was a vital asset during the Vietnam War, performing heroic air-sea rescue missions. Stationed at Kwajalein Atoll in the Pacific, 141262 could land in seas with swells up to 10 feet, thanks to its rugged, boat-like hull and massive wingspan of 96 feet 8 inches.

Powered by two Wright R-1820-76A radial engines, each delivering 1,425 horsepower, the Albatross had a top speed of 236 mph and could fly over 2,500 miles without refueling, making it perfect for long-range search and rescue operations. This aircraft could carry up to 10 survivors and was fitted with a cargo bay large enough for stretchers and supplies, offering life-saving capabilities in the most remote and hostile environments.

What truly made the Albatross iconic was its JATO (Jet-Assisted Take Off) system. With a press of a button, 141262 could fire its powerful rocket boosters, enabling it to leap out of the ocean in a spectacular burst of speed, even when fully loaded. This ability made it indispensable for emergency extractions in rough seas or short water strips.

After serving valiantly in Vietnam and later with the U.S. Coast Guard and Navy, 141262 now belongs to aviation enthusiast Mike Manclark. Lovingly restored, this Albatross still embarks on thrilling adventures around the world, often venturing to remote islands and exotic locales. It’s one of the few airworthy Albatrosses left today, continuing its legacy of adventure and rescue.

James Webb | Friday & Saturday Pilot

James Webb, an accomplished pilot with over 14,000 flight hours and a passion for flying warbirds, aerobatic planes, and amphibious aircraft like the iconic Grumman HU-16 Albatross. Known for his precision and professionalism, James pushes his aviation career far. His “real” job is flying the Gulfstream G650, but you’ll seldom find him not at the airport.

James’s love for aviation spans over two decades, and he's flown an incredible 118 different aircraft models. As an expert in both fixed-wing and helicopter operations, he’s especially proud of flying the Albatross, and considers successfully operating the Albatross in the unpredictable ocean as one of the most difficult and challenging things he’s done in his career. 

When he’s not competing at air races in the Lancair Legacy or flying warbirds like the OV-10 Bronco, James is committed to sharing the legacy of these iconic machines, ensuring their history and purpose remain alive for future generations. Currently flying the Grumman HU-16 for special events and adventures, James continues to combine his passion for safe, graceful flight with a deep respect for aviation’s storied past.

Trevor Henson | Sunday Pilot

Trevor Henson holds an ATP and flight instructor certificates, accumulating 10,000 hours in his flying career.  He has been flying airshows in various warbirds for the past 8 years, often seen flying the B-25, B-17, TBM Avenger, Grumman Albatross, and flying with the Tora Tora Tora Airshow group.   When not flying airshows Trevor is often flying heavy jets for a large cargo airline or running his aircraft management and aviation consulting business.