The HU-16 Albatross was an amphibious search and rescue plane developed from a U.S. Navy design for a utility aircraft. The prototype SA-16 (designation changed to HU-16 in 1962) first flew on 24 October 1947 and soon the Air Force ordered examples for air-sea rescue duties. Grumman delivered 297 HU-16A aircraft to the Air Force. In 1955, Grumman developed an improved B model with increased wingspan and larger aileron and tail surfaces. Many A models were later converted to the improved B configuration.

During the Korean War, Albatross aircraft rescued almost 1,000 United Nations personnel from coastal waters and rivers, often behind enemy lines. They were also used to rescue downed American airmen during the Vietnam War.

This HU-16B, S/N 51-7200, is on loan to Octave Chanute Aerospace Museum from the National Museum of the United States Airforce.