N1954Z —

Why has no one identified this aircraft as a Grumman HU-16 Albatross?

I think it could be a privately owned G-111 Albatross as modified by Flying Boat Inc. These were used by Chalk's Airline out of Miami and Fll during the 1980's. Extensively modified with a titanium spar and pax seating 28 - 30. Designation was changed from SA-16 to G-111. I believe that all were retired to the desert by 1990. Beautiful picture by the way.

This one was a former Navy bird. SN: 142362. It entered service 04/24/54, and was sent to CGAS Traverse City in May of 54. Was in Navy Service until May of 67. In that time, it saw a tour in Vietnam. It was sent to AMARC, and stayed there till 2001, and was then relocated to Alamogordo, NM in 2005 for further restoration. It is currently in Conroe, TX.. The website for this plane is: http://www.everythingalbatross.com

What Lake is this?

This the bay off Hilton Head by the lighthouse!