Sikorsky S-39


The Sikorsky S-39 was an American light amphibious aircraft produced by Sikorsky Aircraft during the early 1930s. The S-39 was a smaller, single-engine version of the S-38.

Operational history

Spirit of Africa

Filmmakers Martin and Osa Johnson used a giraffe-patterned S-39 Spirit of Africa, with companion zebra-striped S-38 Osa's Ark, to explore Africa extensively, making safari movies and books.

Military usage

One example of the S-39 was acquired by the United States Army Air Corps in 1932, given the designation Y1C-28. It was evaluated for use in coastal patrol and light transport roles; in 1934 it was redesignated C-28 and assigned as a liaison aircraft to the United States Military Academy.

Variants

;S-39-A: 4-seat version
;S-39-B: Improved 5-seat version of the S-39-A
;S-39-C: Converted from S-39-B
;C-28: One example of the S-39 acquired by the United States Army Air Corps

Specifications (S-39A)

Surviving aircraft