LH-6 Sea Angel MkIII "Hope" (SN51)
The LH-6 Sea Angel MkIII "Hope" (serial number SN51) is a large, long-range, all-weather search and rescue seaplane developed in the late 1960s. Powered by four piston engines, it was designed for extended maritime operations in severe conditions, specializing in humanitarian and emergency response missions.
Design and Features
The Sea Angel MkIII is a high-wing seaplane with a reinforced hull for open-sea landings and takeoffs. Its design includes three dedicated internal compartments:
Salvage Bay: Equipped for towing and recovery operations.
First Aid Area: For triage and immediate care.
Surgical Room: A fully equipped space for performing critical surgeries during flight or afloat.
The aircraft is equipped with in-flight refueling capability, significantly extending its operational range and mission duration over remote ocean regions.
Crew Configuration
The aircraft operates with a crew of 11:
3 pilots
1 search operator
3 surgical staff
2 medics
2 rescue specialists
Operational Use
The SN51 "Hope" variant was among the most advanced of its series, serving in coastal guard, naval rescue, and international humanitarian missions. It was renowned for its ability to provide medical intervention directly at sea, significantly increasing survival rates in maritime disasters.