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| STANDARD DATA: Seats 5-22. Gross wt. 37,500. Empty wt. 22,883. Engines two 1,425 hp Wright R-1820-76A radials. PERFORMANCE: Max Speed 236 mph. Cruise mph 191. Initial climb rate 1,100. Range 640. Ceiling 21,000. |
The Albatross is the biggest of the Grumman flying boats and was designed for military service. Used originally by the U.S. Navy, the HUs flew a variety of missions, from reconnaissance to anti-submarine warfare and of course, search and rescue. The unique capabilities of the big amphib have caused numerous attempts to modernize the basic hull. In the 1970s, Grumman reconfigured the military design to make room for 28 passengers, and added a galley for food and room for a fight attendant. The new airplane was designated the G111 and awarded FAA certification in 1980. Other Albatrosses have been converted to turbine power.
