A Special Newsletter Created for Everyone in the Aviation Industry!
Vol. 06 Num. 02 SUMMER 2013
Featured Sections
2 3 4
Seaplane Essentials
Why did they do it that way?
Come On In — The Water’s Fine!
Things to do at Oshkosh
Brian Addis, Business Manager - Lake & Air Pilot Shop
Most pilots dismiss the idea of adding a seaplane rating to their certificate because they feel there is little chance of using it after the day of the check ride. It’s hard to argue with that logic but consider this: Most pilots that fly seaplanes now had the same expectation on the day of their check ride. Life is a conglomeration of unexpected opportunities and “chance” experiences, no matter how much control we think we have. In any case, it is an easy—and fun—rating to obtain, especially in the warm weather months. Here are a few “getting started” suggestions: Find a copy of the “Seaplane Training Directory” published annually by the Seaplane Pilot’s Association. Seaplane schools are listed by state. Concerns about the quality of the instructor can be dismissed. If the instructor has reached “insurance approved seaplane instructor” status, it is very likely that instructor is quite competent. Personalities and training methods can vary from instructor to instructor, so you may want to ask some basic questions about availability and training practices ahead of time. Remember, no day is ever the same in a seaplane, so keep an open mind to new experiences. Prepare by reading any one of the text books on learning to fly seaplanes; there are several on the market. Look online for seaplane training courseware to get an idea of the content of syllabi or simply look at the Practical Test Standard for the required tasks for a seaplane rating.
Choose a school, schedule the training and enjoy a new experience in flying and remember; only a handful of people in the entire world are able to add this experience to their list. No matter what you do with the rating, the experience of obtaining it will open a new dimension in flying.
Brian Addis Are You Newly Seaplane Rated? Let us be the first to welcome you to the seaplane flying community! As you have already discovered, the seaplane pilot’s lifestyle is one of adventure and freedom. In celebration of this accomplishment, Wipaire extends to you the opportunity to receive a custom-engraved “Freedom to Explore” medallion*. Visit www.wipaire.com/medallion for details and to claim your medallion! * Valid for ratings issued after May 23rd, 2012. While supplies last.