Get up close and personal with a legendary maritime patrol aircraft in the static display at the International Sanicole Airshow 2025 and marvel at its size while thinking back at the historic and combat and life-saving missions it performed: PlaneSailing’s Consolidated PBY-5 Catalina.
The Consolidated PBY-5 Catalina was one of the most versatile amphibian of World War II, renowned for its long range, durability, and ability to operate from both land and water. Introduced in the 1930s, the Catalina served in various roles including maritime patrol, anti-submarine warfare, search and rescue, and convoy escort. One of its most famous combat missions was the spotting of the Japanese fleet approaching Midway Island in June 1942. The sighting by a Catalina crew enabled the U.S. Navy to prepare a decisive ambush, contributing significantly to the American victory in the Battle of Midway—a turning point in the Pacific War. With its distinctive high wing and long loiter time, the PBY-5 became an icon of Allied air-sea operations.
The Catalina that will be on the ground at the Sanicole airfield belongs to PlaneSailing and is based at Duxford. It is actually a OA-10A, the U.S. Army Air Forces' designation for a PBY-5A Catalina adapted for air-sea rescue. Built in 1943, this amphibious flying boat served primarily in the critical role of saving downed airmen and stranded personnel during World War II. It was part of the 5th Emergency Rescue Squadron based at Halesworth in Great-Britain. Their aircraft wears the colours of the aircraft ‘Miss Pickup’. Make sure to check out its colourful nose art.
Enjoy the sight of the Catalina on the ground on 13 & 14 September 2025 at Hechtel-Eksel.
