SA-16E “Albatross”
Serial number 51-7254
SPECIFICATIONS:
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Wing Span — 96'8"
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Length — 62'10"
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Height — 25'11"
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Maximum Speed — 230 M.P.H.
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Service Ceiling — 23,800 Ft.
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Range — 1,650 Miles
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Crew — 6 plus 10 passengers
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Armament — None
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Engines — 2 x 1,425 H.P. Wright R-1820-76B radial engines
The Grumman "Albatross" proved itself during the Korean War. Originally a Grumman in-house design, the Albatross shows the sleek lines of its older siblings; the Grumman Mallard, Goose and Widgeon.
Used extensively in the Search and Rescue (SAR) roles by the U.S. Air Force, over 900 flyers were rescued in Korea by SA-16 crew. When not saving lives, the SA-16 (later designated HU-6) flew VIPs, cargo, and aerial ice flow and oil slick surveillance. Called upon again to serve in Vietnam, the Albatross saved many lives until being replaced by helicopter in the SAR role.
The Albatross was phased out of service by the Air Force in 1974. The SA-16 flew with the U.S. Navy until September, 1976, and soldiered on with the U.S. Coast Guard up to March, 1988. Over 20 other countries, including Greece, Norway, Japan and the Philippines, flew the Albatross.
Our SA-16E last served with the U.S. Coast Guard, flying from Cape Cod. She flew into storage on May 25, 1979. After sitting in the Arizona sun for almost 10 years, she flew to the museum on April 8, 1989. Plans call for the SA-16E to be painted in U.S. Air Force markings prior to being placed on display.
Information based on, “Travis Heritage Center” by Nick Veronico, copyright Travis AFB Historical Society and Travis AFB Heritage Center Foundation.
This book is available from the Travis Heritage Center gift shop.