The world’s most capable and proven amphibious aircraft platform
Amphibian Aerospace Industries (AAI) is a global amphibious aircraft manufacturer, delivering advanced aerospace solutions for commercial, government, and defense markets. Drawing on decades of seaplane
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+ years of legacy
First flown in 1947
The Grumman HU-16 Albatross was developed as a long-range amphibious aircraft
Twin Wright R
The Grumman HU-16 Albatross was developed as a long-range amphibious aircraft
More than 460 aircraft
The Grumman HU-16 Albatross was developed as a long-range amphibious aircraft
First Flown in1947
First flown in 1947, the Grumman HU-16 Albatross was developed as a long-range amphibious aircraft for search and rescue (SAR) missions over sea and land. Entering U.S. Air Force service in 1949, it became a vital asset during the Korean War, recovering downed pilots in remote and hostile environments.
Twin Wright R - 1820
Powered by twin Wright R-1820 radial engines, the Albatross offered a range of over 2,800 km and could land in open seas — a capability that saved countless lives. It was widely adopted by the U.S. Navy, Coast Guard, and over a dozen allied nations for maritime patrol, medevac, and transport.
More than 460 aircraft
More than 460 aircraft were produced between 1947 and 1961. Known for its rugged design and amphibious versatility, the Albatross served into the 1980s and remains a celebrated icon of aviation history.
Developed by Grumman in Long Island, New York, the Albatross first flew on October 24, 1947. Designed with a deep-V hull for open-sea landings and operations on land, ice, and water, the aircraft entered U.S. Air Force service in 1949 as the SA-16A. It was deployed extensively in the Korean War, conducting over 1,000 combat rescue missions. Its success led to adoption by the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard, and by 1962, all U.S. models were unified under the HU-16 designation.
Military Roots to Global Legacy
1950s: Global Expansion and Cold War Missions
Grumman introduced the HU-16B in 1955 with a greater wingspan and extended range. The aircraft saw deployment during the Vietnam War for jungle medevac and riverine support. It was also exported to over a dozen allied nations—including Japan, Canada, Greece, and Argentina—for use in maritime patrol, search and rescue (SAR), and anti-submarine warfare. By the end of the decade, the Albatross had established a global footprint as a rugged multirole amphibian.
Military Roots to Global Legacy
1960s: Commercial Transformation
With many Albatrosses being retired from military service, the U.S. Department of the Interior repurposed surplus aircraft to launch Trust Territory Airlines in Micronesia (1967–1970). These amphibians provided vital connectivity to island communities before the construction of airstrips shifted operations to land-based aircraft. This marked the Albatross’s entry into commercial aviation.
Military Roots to Global Legacy
1970s: Records and Legacy Flights
On July 4, 1973, an HU-16B Albatross set the world altitude record for amphibious aircraft at 32,883 feet. Though its military role was winding down, it remained in use by select operators for special missions and began to attract the attention of private owners and aviation historians. This decade also saw the early stages of the aircraft’s transition into a legacy icon.
Military Roots to Global Legacy
1980s: FAA Certification and Scheduled Airline Use
Chalk’s International Airlines, a historic U.S.-based seaplane carrier, converted 13 HU-16s into G-111s under FAA Type Certification. These upgrades allowed the Albatross to operate as a commercial transport aircraft across Florida and the Caribbean. This unique conversion made it one of the few amphibians certified for scheduled passenger service in the modern regulatory era.
Military Roots to Global Legacy
1990s: Global Retirement and Private Renaissance
By the early 1990s, most military and government operators had officially retired the Albatross, marking the end of its frontline operational career. However, the aircraft saw a renaissance in private aviation during this decade. Aviation enthusiasts began acquiring and restoring Albatross aircraft for personal use, long-range travel, and expeditions. Notably, Reid Dennis and Andy Macfie completed a world circumnavigation in 1997 aboard their restored Albatross, flying over 26,347 nautical miles across five continents—demonstrating the aircraft’s enduring capability and cult following among serious aviators. This era cemented the Albatross’s status as a prized collector's aircraft and symbol of rugged adventure
Military Roots to Global Legacy
2000s–Present: Restoration and Heritage
Today, a limited number of Albatross aircraft remain airworthy in private hands and museums. Restored examples continue to fly at airshows and heritage events, preserving the legacy of one of the most capable and iconic amphibious aircraft ever built. High-profile owners such as Jimmy Buffett, who piloted the “Hemisphere Dancer” featured in his memoirs, and explorers like John and Joyce Proctor, who used their Albatross as a flying RV for world travel, reflect the aircraft’s unique appeal among adventurers and collectors. Its iconic design, ocean-crossing range, and amphibious versatility have secured its place in aviation history. With 464 aircraft produced, the Albatross remains a symbol of rugged versatility and aviation excellence.
