Amphibious Legend

Some aircraft make history. The Grumman HU-16C Albatross rescued it.

First built in the 1950s, this rugged amphibian was a lifeline during the Vietnam War, plucking downed pilots and survivors from seas with swells up to 10 feet. With its boat like hull, massive 96-foot wingspan, and long-range endurance of over 2,500 miles, the Albatross could go where others couldn’t and bring people home.

Powered by two Wright R-1820 radial engines, each cranking out 1,425 horsepower, the Albatross carried up to 10 survivors and critical supplies. And when things got dicey, it had a trick up its sleeve: JATO rocket boosters. With the push of a button, this bird could blast itself off the water in a spectacular spray of power, even fully loaded.