[4K] Consolidated PBY Catalina taking off from water

Watch the legendary Consolidated PBY Catalina perform one of the maneuvers that made it famous during World War II, taking off directly from the water. With its large parasol wing, twin engines, and distinctive boat-shaped hull, the Catalina was designed to operate from oceans, harbors, and remote coastal areas where traditional runways were not available.

This 4K footage was recorded during the Mazury Air Show on August 4, 2018, in Giżycko, Poland. As the historic flying boat accelerates across the water’s surface, its engines roar to life, and the aircraft gradually lifts into the air. Moments like this highlight the unique design that allowed the Catalina to serve in long-range patrol, reconnaissance, and search and rescue missions. Seeing one take off from the water today offers aviation enthusiasts a rare glimpse of one of the most iconic seaplanes ever built.