A Bizarre CIA Black Plane?
Have you ever heard of the Grumman SA-16 Albatross? It was a twin-engine amphibian aircraft that could land and take off from both water and land. It was designed for air-sea rescue missions, but it also had a secret role in the Cold War. The CIA used it for covert operations, such as infiltrating agents, dropping supplies, and spying on enemy territory. It was a black plane, literally and figuratively.
One of the most remarkable stories involving the SA-16 Albatross happened in 1950, during the Korean War. A US Navy pilot, Glenn T. Farnsworth, was shot down by enemy fire while flying his F4U Corsair, a powerful fighter-bomber. He had to ditch his plane in the Yellow Sea, hoping for a rescue. He was lucky enough to be spotted by his comrades, who radioed for help. The Rescue Coordination Center in Japan contacted a nearby SA-16 Albatross, call sign “Dumbo”, and directed it to the scene. The Albatross, piloted by Captain Charles E. Schroeder of the 5th Air Rescue Squadron, flew to the rescue, escorted by three F-51 Mustang fighters.
The Albatross landed on the water and picked up Farnsworth, who was cold and wet but otherwise unhurt. He was amazed by the sight of the strange aircraft, which looked like a giant seagull. He later said, “It was a smooth operation. I was confident all the time I was in the water that I would be picked up, but I was mighty glad to see those US Air Force planes out there.” He returned to duty with his squadron, and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his service.
The SA-16 Albatross was not only a lifesaver, but also a spy. The CIA modified some of the planes with cameras, radios, and radar jamming devices. They flew over China, North Korea, and the Soviet Union, gathering intelligence and conducting sabotage. They also supported the anti-communist guerrillas in Laos, Vietnam, and Tibet. Some of these missions were so secret that they were not even recorded in official documents. The pilots and crews of the Albatrosses risked their lives for the sake of national security.
The Albatross was retired from the US military service in 1953, but it continued to fly for other countries and civilian operators. It was used for firefighting, cargo transport, tourism, and scientific research. It was also featured in several movies and TV shows, such as The Expendables 2, The Mummy, and Magnum P.I. The last Albatross in active service was operated by the Honduran Air Force until 1979. Today, there are about 50 Albatrosses still flying, mostly owned by private collectors and enthusiasts.
The Albatross was a remarkable aircraft that served many purposes. It was a versatile and reliable machine that could adapt to any environment. It was also a witness and a participant of some of the most important events of the 20th century. It was a bizarre CIA black plane, but also a hero and a legend.
