Sikorsky S-38 Amphibian Seaplane- Before helicopters, S-38’s were flying Hawaii tourists over waterfalls

One cannot cover commercial seaplanes in Hawaii without noting the small but truly great Sikorsky S-38. Often called an "air yacht", it was stylish, luxurious, yet rugged. And it had wheels, making it an amphibian seaplane.

Many feel it was one of the all time classic seaplanes.

It was used by film makers and adventurers as well

as by Pan American Airways and Hawaii's own

Inter-Island Airways (later Hawaiian Airlines).

Sikorsky S-38

Pratt & Whitney

450 HP Radial Wasp engines. This one

was the "MAUI"

110 mph, 600 mile range. Seats 8 people,

Plus pilot and co-pilot.

HawaiiN .Com

S-38

Sikorsky S-38. Powered by twin Pratt & Whitney 450 HP Radial Wasp engines. 110 mph, 600 mile range. Seats 8 people, Plus pilot and co-pilot. This one was the "MAUI". One cannot cover commercial seaplanes in Hawaii without noting the small but truly great Sikorsky S-38. Often called an "air yacht", it was stylish, luxurious, yet rugged. And it had wheels, making it an amphibian seaplane. Many feel it was one of the all time classic seaplanes. It was used by film makers and adventurers as well as by Pan American Airways and Hawaii's own Inter-Island Airways (later Hawaiian Airlines).