Endorsements -  Seaplane Rating

Imagine yourself flying high above Canadian forests as thousands of shimmering lakes slip beneath your floats. Flying the wide open skies of Canada’s north; far from the watchful eye of radar, unconcerned about air traffic congestion; restricted airspace does not exist. 

Just you and your seaplane exploring the great Canadian Shield; flying through the same pathless skies once ventured by  the legendary Canadian bush pilots of  years past. Complete freedom.

Perhaps you want to land your floatplane near a secluded sandy beach just to relax in the sun, far away from the pressures of everyday life. Or, perhaps you've discovered a lake teaming with trophy sized fish just waiting for your challenge.

Whatever your dream, whatever your reason, Winnipeg Aviation will help you master all the skills that float flying demands. Your initial float training will be more comprehensive than most. This is because we are situated by the Red River and just a short hop away from huge Lake Winnipeg (some might call it a sea).  As well, there are numerous other small and challenging lakes nearby.

This means that you will be thoroughly trained to handle all of the different types of water conditions that you are likely to encounter. In fact, we are so confident in your skills after our course, that we usually let our students rent our float plane and fly to most lakes without any prior dual inspection of the lake.

You will learn how to “read” the water for the safest landings, how to handle rough water and of course how to master the techniques of the tricky “glassy” water landing.

There are other tricks of the bush pilots trade to learn such as how to “sail” the sea plane in order that you can approach and tie up at the dock. A bit of a challenge docking, remember, you’re on water and you don’t have brakes!

Float flying, possibly the most fun you can have with wings.

In order to apply for seaplane rating the applicant must be the holder of a Recreational pilot permit, a Private pilot license, a Commercial pilot license or an Airline Transport license.  Also, you must have a valid Class 3 medical certificate and meet all currency requirements and be a minimum of 16 years of age. 

Flight training

The seaplane rating course consists of a total of 7 hours of training, including a minimum of five hours of dual instruction and a minimum of five takeoffs and landings as sole occupant of the airplane.

The following exercises shall be included in the seaplane rating:

(a) taxiing
(b) sailing
(c) docking
(d) takeoffs and landings, and
(e) as conditions exist, operations in  glassy water, rough water and in cross wind conditions

You must have reached the skill level specified in the Flight Instructor Guide-Seaplane Rating (TP12668) prior to being granted the seaplane rating.