Water Flying

Steve McCaughey is joined by Peter Christie, Slade Rosamond, and Carter Clay to discuss their lessons and experiences learned flying with Steve on a 5,000 mile seaplane cross country.

The Super Cub's first stretch was flown by Slade from home base in Winter Haven, FL to 19-Mile Bay, NH in support of keeping the Lake Winnipesaukee bay open. After the public hearing in New Hampshire the plane was flown to Brunswick, Maine where the Super Cub sat for two months during Oshkosh. Carter flew the second leg from Maine to Minnesota in support of the Greenville International Seaplane Fly-in and the MSPA Safety Seminar at Maddens Resort in Brainerd, MN. The Super Cub sat again for two months this time at Wipaire's Factory in Minnesota. The last leg was flown with Peter to return the Super Cub back to home base in Winter Haven.

Once all was said and done, the Super Cub logged 80 hours and crossed 25 states in this seaplane cross-country adventure.

Todd Rust the owner and operator of Rust's Flying Service the largest seaplane operator in Alaska joins Steve for a fascinating discussion of the history of Rust's and the unique experiences that you can have when flying with them.

From glaciers to beluga whales, moose and bears when you fly with the largest off-airport operator in the United States every flight is a dream come true for those seeking unique experiences.

Visit Rust's website at: www.flyrusts.com

Brian Flegel, Chief Flight Instructor at Kenmore Air, joins Steve for an exploration of seaplane training at their facility in Kenmore, Washington. Brian's journey to becoming the Chief Flight Instructor at Kenmore is a true success story not only for him, but also for the effectiveness of the Seaplane Pilots Association's seminar and workshop programs.

This is both an informative podcast for those seeking a seaplane rating, but also an inspiring story of going from an aspiring pilot in the crowd at a seminar to becoming the Chief Flight Instructor at Kenmore Air.

Visit Kenmore at: https://www.kenmoreairharbor.com/flight-instruction.html

Winter seaplane operations are the focus of this episode of Water Flying. Curt Sneddeker, the Maintenance Department Manager at Wipaire in South Saint Paul, Minnesota joins me to discuss useful tips for seaplane owners to conduct for protecting their aircraft during winter operations.

With over 40 years of aviation maintenance experience and over 20 years specializing in seaplane maintenance, Curt is a wealth of knowledge and seaplane wisdom. It was great to sit down with him and get up to speed with things that I would need to know and do before departing on my first multi-day cross country flight in sub-freezing weather.

Richard McSpadden, the Executive Director of the AOPA Aviation Safety Institute, joins us on this episode of Water Flying to discuss the results of the recent Seaplane Study the Seaplane Pilots Association partnered with ASI to conduct.

In this episode, Richard and Steve McCaughey review some of the most important results of this study. These results will guide our areas of focus as we develop future safety seminars, videos, and other safety programs.

Increase your safety awareness, by watching the Seaplane Foundation Amphibious Gear Safety Video and taking the short test afterwards at: https://www.classmarker.com/online-test/start/user-info/?quiz=pbk6283dac5e4d02

Kelli O Donnell is a passionate Seaplane Pilots Association volunteer, marine biologist with NOAA fisheries and is dedicated to helping more women enter the wonderful world of seaplane flying.

In this episode of Water Flying, we will discuss the Seaplane Sirens (Women who charm the winds) Facebook group and how it is serving women who want to join our seaplane flying community.

Roger Paradise from Currier's Flying Service sits down with Steve in Currier’s hangar lakeside Moosehead Lake in Greenville, Maine, for this episode of Water Flying.

Currier's is currently operating two ultra-rare Cessna 195s on floats as well as a De Havilland Beaver and couple of Cessna 180s on floats. Learn what kind of challenges Roger faces operating this historic seaplane service flying vintage seaplanes including the only two commercially operated Cessna 195 floatplanes in the world.

Check out Currier's website at https://curriersflyingservice.com

Missy Lee from Alaska Floats & Skis @AK8 joins Water Flying on this episode to discuss the unique experience pilots will have flying with them in Talkeetna, Alaska.

Whether it be remote river bar landings, landing on roads, ski operations, or seaplane training, pilots flying with Alaska Floats & Skis will expand their flying horizons!

https://www.alaskafloats.com

John Gowey, Director of Flight Operations at Kenmore Air Harbor, joins me for an in-depth discussion on how the wind affects seaplane operations. How to properly read wind direction on the water and align correctly for a safe landing into the wind.

Additionally, what you need to know about wind sheer which occurs when wind flows over and around terrain or other vertical obstructions and how this will affect both your landings and takeoffs in a seaplane. Counter intuitively, protected harbors can create wind hazards for seaplane operations. Listen in and learn to improve your piloting skills and safety!

https://kenmoreair.com/

The Birches is a must visit seaplane friendly resort in northern Maine and a frequent destination for the Seaplane Pilots Association. John Willard who owns this amazing resort joins us on this episode of Water Flying.

John is a passionate seaplane pilot and owner operator and has worked tirelessly to create a resort that offers a seaplane destination seaplane with a marina, gravel strip, numerous wildlife tours, private cabins, a great on site restaurant and bar among the many other opportunities that can be enjoyed by visitors to this play ground in the wooded lake country of northern Maine.

https://www.birches.com

Steve Williams from Acme Cub joins Steve at Lake Hood to discuss the in-depth seaplane instruction that they provide in Alaska. The sheer number of seaplanes and seaplane operations at Lake Hood is unlike any other seaplane base in the world, but it share the strong sense of community that seaplane pilots are known for.

With well over 17,000 hours of backcountry Alaska on big tires and floats Steve Williams has a perspective and wisdom regarding seaplane operations and flying in Alaska that is hard to eclipse. Recorded at the beginning of the 2022 Alaska float season this is must listen episode.

SPA Field Director, Don Goodman, joins Steve to discuss seaplane flying opportunities in the Pacific Northwest. A mountain climbing expedition ignited Don's interest in pursuing his pilots license, and lead to Don owning a Cessna 182 on straight floats.

From boarder crossings to island destinations and even inland alpine lakes the Pacific Northwest abounds with a diverse variety of seaplane flying opportunities for pilots to explore.

TR Wood from Epic Seaplane Adventures joins Steve to discuss the recent attempt to ban seaplanes from 19 Mile Bay on Lake Winnipesaukee, the largest lake in New Hampshire.

The Seaplane Pilots Association with support from AOPA, RAF, the New Hampshire Pilots Association and Maine Aeronautics Association prevailed against a group of well intended but grossly misinformed residents that had been stirred into a anti-seaplane frenzy.

We discuss the concerns, the realities and the outcome of the public hearing and the decision that followed.

It's great to be back again for another week of Water Flying!

This week Aaron Martin from U.S. Fish & Wildlife joins Steve on location on the shores of Lake Hood to discuss seaplanes and invasive species in Alaska.

Listen in and get an understanding of invasive species, and the impact they have on the ecosystems and the seaplane community. Aaron Martin is the Invasive Species Program Manager and Coordinator of the Anchorage region for the United States Fish and Wildlife.

Aquatic hitchhikers can and must be stopped!

Gary Norris president of the Greenville International Seaplane Fly-In joins Steve this episode to discuss the 2022 seaplane event at Moosehead Lake in Maine.

Listen in and get a feel for the small town, large mountain lake, numerous events and variety of aircraft that will be attending this event.

This is the "World's Largest Seaplane Event" and one that has a unique character that one can only truly appreciate by experiencing the event in person.

Note: There are audio hits from a thunderstorm in the area.

This episode of Water Flying reveals the surprising amount of seaplane flying opportunities in the state of Texas. SPA Texas & Regional Field Director Mike Eiras elaborates on the laws, water access and possibilities that abound for seaplanes in Texas. Honestly, it sure sounds like more seaplane pilots need to take advantage of these and we are sure you will agree after listening to this episode of Water Flying.

This episode is dedicated to all that contributed to creating the amazingly successful year the seaplane community has experienced in 2021.

Thank you and we send our warmest wishes for a Merry Seaplane Christmas and Happy Holiday Season.

Join us for a discussion on flying seaplanes in California with severe drought conditions, glassy water landings and insights into the Seaplane Foundation scholarship programs.

Water Flying welcomes Terry Hayes a legendary seaplane pilot, seaplane instructor, aviation advocate, SPA volunteer, Seaplane Foundation Scholarship Committee Chairwoman, activate donor, retired DPE and mountain pilot.

Wow that was a mouth full... Terry is inspirational and one of most experience mountain seaplane pilots in the lower 48.

Apply for scholarships or donate at 

seaplanefoundation.org

Email Terry at [email protected] 

Amphib seaplane owners, operators and those wishing to purchase an amphibious seaplane will not want to miss this episode discussing amphibious seaplane wheel maintenance tips and tricks.

Chris Shannon from Amphibians Plus, shares numerous antidotes for amphib owners to extend their bearing life and reduce maintenance expenses along the way.

https://www.amphibiansplus.com/

Email Chris at [email protected]

Andy Jackson the Flight Training Network Manager at Icon Aircraft joins us on this episode of the Water Flying podcast to discuss the numerous flight training programs currently offered by ICON Aircraft.

From ICON Authorized Flight Instructors programs to Single Engine Sea Ratings and owner transition programs ICON Aircraft has developed a much more impressive training curriculum than most people realize.

Join us on this episode of the Water Flying podcast to learn more.

Why is the Cessna 185 Skywagon such a legendary seaplane and bush plane? In this episode of Water Flying, we discuss this topic with Stephen Williams who has been an owner and operator of his Cessna 185 for over 26 years.

This is part of an on going series within the Water Flying podcast where we explore different specific types of seaplanes providing a general overview of their operations, as well as, a many of the more notable talking points that will help you our listeners be more knowledgable regarding these aircraft.

Peter Christie is one of the most active Seaplane Pilots Association volunteers, and for nine years and running he has traveled from Alaska to Florida working events with our staff and volunteers.

In this episode of Water Flying, Peter shares his experiences, motivations and thoughts on why volunteering has been so rewarding to him.

Water Flying magazine's editor Mark Twombly joins Steve McCaughey for an in depth discussion on the small but effective team that puts together the seaplane community's flagship magazine. Just as importantly, we discuss how much member input goes into the publication and we provide guidelines for aspiring writers within our community to submit content of their own.

Join us as we visit Lake Fest 2021 the largest event for the Lake Amphibian community. Myron Mitchell, Adrian Wood and Bill Greenwald from the Lake Amphibian Club's board join Steve for a review of this year's event which was held in Pineville, Louisiana. No less than 18 Lake aircraft and approximately 60 people attended this 4 day event dedicated to fun social, educational and flying activities.

Tavares, Florida has become a "Mecca" for seaplanes, one where the city, businesses and residents have fully embraced seaplanes as and integral part of their community. John Drury the City Manager and Seaplane Pilots Association Board Member is the visionary behind this unique redevelopment of the town's economy around seaplanes and the results are truly impressive.

This episode of the Water Flying podcast is a must listen for seaplane pilots and the leaders of water front town's looking to develop new economic health in their community.

Tavares.org

In this episode, Water Flying visits one of our favorite seaplane resorts. Join us as we sit down with Ben Thuringer SPA Lifetime Member and COO (Chief Operating Officer) of Madden's Resort in Brainerd, Minnesota.

Madden's Resort is owned and operated by a family deeply invested in the seaplane community, and operates numerous aircraft including their newest, a Aviat Husky on amphibious floats.

We honestly don't know of another seaplane destination that offers as much as Madden's when it comes to seaplane destinations.

On this very special episode of Water Flying Seaplane Pilots Association Founder David Quam joins Steve McCaughey to discuss the history of SPA. Dave is still actively attending events and telling his colorful stories of seaplane adventures 49 years after founding this association.

While haunted houses are common place in cities around the world, Tavares, Florida hosts an annual Monster Seaplane Splash-In, complete with a pumpkin smashing bomb drop competition.

Kendall Clutts Tavares' Aviaiton manager joins this episode's hosts Mark Twombly and Steve Mccaughey to discuss this unique seaplane splash-in (fly-In) which features seaplane competitions, live concerts, fireworks and so much more.

Date: October 16, 2021

Time: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Time Details:

10:00am: Marina Grand Opening Ceremony 11:00am: Seaplane Contests | Vendors | Family Fun Zone 2:00pm: Papa Wheelee 6:45pm: Leaving Haven 8:00pm: Scott Stapp

Location:

Wooton Park

Address:

100 E. Ruby Street

Tavares, FL 32778

Contact: 352-742-6176

Email: Cheri Moan

Cost:

FREE

Link:

Facebook Event Page

Laurent Gauthier owner & CEO of Porta Air Service joins Steve and Abbie along with Clint Clouatre Vice President of Marketing and Sales for Wipaire.

Porta Air who is based in Friedrichshafen, Germany recently signed a new partnership with Wipaire as an international authorized installation and service center for Wipline 8750 floats, single point refueling and among other services. Laurent and Clint are here to share the news with us and you, our listeners.

The Water Flying podcast goes on location as we sit down with Steve Guetter and his fellow board members of the Minnesota Seaplane Pilots Association for a recap of the 2021 Seaplane Safety Seminar at Maddens on Gull Lake in Brainerd, MN.

Over 40 seaplanes and 150 pilots attended this year's MSPA three day seaplane safety seminar - find out more in this episode.

Ben Shipps from Brown's Seaplane Base joins Steve & Abbie to discuss the things that challenge new seaplane pilots in their training and check rides.

Additionally, we discuss the transition of ownership of Brown's Seaplane base to the next generation and the addition of an Icon A5 to the training fleet of Piper J-3 Cubs and Super Cubs.

Top ten episodes from the first 25,000 listens to the Water Flying podcast. Abbie and Steve review and reflect on the most popular seaplane episodes from our first year and 25,000 listens.

You will be provided the episode number, topic and a description of each. Safety, insurance and training all rank among the most popular topics.

Zane Jacobson founder of BackcountryPilot.org joins Steve & Abbie for a discussion on intersection of seaplanes and backcountry flying.

Backcountrypilot.org is a great looking website with a growing collection of resources for backcountry land and seaplane pilots.

For more info visit: backcountrupilot.org & seaplanes.org

In this episode we talk with Seaplane Pilots Association Chairman of the Board Phil Lockwood. Phil's passion for innovation and his tireless advocacy for the aviation community are truly inspirational. Best known for creating and manufacturing the amazing multiengine AirCam, he also is an accomplished photographer and video producer. Somehow he is able to find time to lead SPA; his Sebring, Florida, EAA chaper; and numerous other organizations. Take time to tune in to this insightful episode featuring SPA's talented Chairman of the Board.

Seaplane Nirvana, attending Greenville Maine's International Seaplane Fly-In should be on every seaplane pilot and seaplane fan's bucket list.

Gary Norris president of the Greenville International Seaplane Fly-In joins Steve & Abbie to discuss the history, the setting and what to expect when attending the world's largest seaplane fly-in.

Website: seaplanefly-in.org

In this episode of Water Flying, we express our deep gratitude for the time, energy and passion that both the SPA and EAA volunteers gave to make Airventure 2021 such an amazing success.

We also share some of the incredible statistics of SPA's membership results and activities at the show, as well as, the impressive stats from EAA regarding Airventure 2021.

Steve Guetter Minnesota Seaplane Pilots Association President joins Steve & Abbie during Airventure 2021 to provide us not only an update on seaplane flying in Minnesota, but also discusses a new training and leasing program from Wipaire.

wipaire.com

seaplanes.org

Flying Boat Director Dirk Braun, joins Steve & Abbie to discuss the amazing Grumman Albatross and his new film that follows the life of the skilled mechanics that bring these giant seaplanes back to life and the adventures that those own them enjoy.

"Flying Boat" the movie tells the history of flying boats and brilliantly explores the deep connections of the men and women that fly and restore Grumman Albatrosses. This film features brilliant cinematography, as it captures a unique perspective that few have experienced.

Kevin Oaks joins Steve & Abbie to discuss a very special Aviat Husky on the 500th set of Wipaire 2100 Amphibious floats. This airplane is featured in a cover story of the July/August 2021 issue of Water Flying magazine and we just got to fly her.

In this episode Steve and Abbie explain the seaplane event schedule for Airventure 2021. SPA will be hosting multiple seaplane seminars, demonstrations, and more! You can find us at booth #3000 and #3001 at the main booth and at our SPA tent at the EAA Seaplane Base.

Stop by for your newest seaplane shirt and learn more about our exciting promotion, a chance to win $2,000 if you join or renew your SPA membership!

Alex Vacha general manager of the Winter Haven, Florida airport joins Steve & Abbie for a discussion on protecting your seaplane from Hurricanes and Tropical Storms. Topics covered include advance planning, relocation considerations, when to go and more...

seaplanes.org

This week’s very important topic is “ What your lawyer wants you to do after a seaplane accident”.

Steve & Abbie are joined again by Ed Page, renowned aviation lawyer and flight instructor, who is going to share his advice on how to handle your priorities immediately after having a seaplane incident.

Learn More about AOPA's Pilot Protection Services by clicking the link below:

https://pilot-protection-services.aopa.org/

Learn about the exciting LSA seaplane that makes no apologies for being different. Roger Helton CEO and chief pilot Shawn Shevalier from Super Petrel USA join Steve & Abbie for an informative introduction to the Super Petrel LSA seaplane.

Visit Super Petrel's website at superpetrelusa.com

Super Petrel Mini Documentary https://youtu.be/T6HJslCX99g

Adam White from the Alaska Airmen's Association joins Steve & Abbie for a discussion on the importance of the seaplane community proactively addressing the threat of aquatic invasive species in Alaska.

alaskaairmen.org

Seaplanes.org

Don Lee from Alaska Floats & Skis joins Abbie & Steve for a discussion on the importance of creating the next generation of seaplane pilots.

Tune in to this episode of the Water Flying podcast to learn more about your hosts Abbie Kellett, Assistant to the Executive Director and Steve McCaughey, Executive Director of the Seaplane Pilots Association.

We'll share our aviation journeys, passion and what brought us to the Seaplane Pilots Association.

SPA Field Director Chairmen & EAA Airventure Seaplane Base Chairmen Mark Wrasse joins Steve & Abbie for a discussion on the need and role of volunteers at Airventure.

If you are interested in volunteering for SPA or EAA at Airventure 2021 start the discussion by emailing [email protected]

Aquatic Invasive Species represent an ever increasing threat to both seaplane access and more importantly the health of our nations waterways.

One of the nations leading experts on Aquatic Invasive Species and AIS inspection and decontamination training, Quagga Dee Davis joins Steve & Abbie for an informative discussion on invasive species. The Seaplane Pilots Association works aggressively with resource managers and regulators to proactively combat this threat to the waterways we enjoy as seaplane pilots.

"Those that haven’t had a close call in the air will, and those who have, will have more." This sobering statement comes from SPA Field Director Mike Kincaid in regards to midair collisions and avoidance procedures.

On this week's podcast, Mike joins Steve and Abbie to share his experiences and give qualified advice on how to prevent midair collisions in sea and land planes. We want to see our pilots using good judgement and decision making to reduce their chance of being involved in a midair collision.

Importantly, this episode covers techniques that seaplane pilots can exercise to avoid midair collisions.

Levi Guimond from PK Floats joins us for an informative discussion what pilots need to know as they approach the purchase of their first seaplane.

For information visit the seaplanes.org and www.pkfloats.com

In this episode we announce an exciting new seaplane rating scholarship co-created with Ladies In Flight Training (LIFT) and the Seaplane Pilots Association.

This scholarship will be awarded several times a year to women of all ages. Join Abbie & Steve with guests Kelli O'Donnell and Nicoletta Fala from LIFT.

Inquire and apply for the scholarship at

FlyLift.org

Donate at:

https://seaplanefoundation.org/donate/ (((select Ladies In Flight Training in the drop down menu)))

To Join or other information:

seaplanes.org

Art Bossler from Falcon Insurance joins Steve and Abbie for episode one of a continuing series that explains the factors that affect seaplane insurance rates.

Join the Seaplane Pilots Association at

Seaplanes.org

Speak with Seaplane Insurance professionals at falconinsurance.com

Paul Arnold from Switlik joins Steve and Abbie for an informative discussion on what makes Switlik just the product features and construction differences that separate their personal floatation devices from the competition and why it is so important for pilots to wear these lifesaving devices.

Esteemed aviation lawyer and passionate seaplane pilot Ed Page joins Steve and Abbie for a highly informative discussion on NASA reports; a tool that few pilots know or understand.

This episode explains how pilots should use this form not only to protect themselves, but to help provide valuable feedback regarding safety to the entire aviation community.

Join Abbie and Steve as they sit down with Abby Austin from the Alaska Airmen's Association to talk about the organization and the upcoming Great Alaska Aviation Gathering on May 8 & 9 at the Alaska State Fairgrounds & Palmer Municipal Airport.

The Alaska Airmen's Association is a vital partner organization to SPA in a state with more licensed pilots per capita than any state in the union. The Association includes over 2,000 members, one of the largest General Aviation communities in the country. Their parallel mission with the Seaplane Pilots Association is to promote aviation, enhance safety and support initiatives that benefit pilots and our growing aviation community. 

Every the association raffles off an aircraft; get your raffle tickets at https://alaskaairmen.org/

Join the Seaplane Pilots Association at http://seaplanes.org

Get up to date with the latest information that seaplane pilots should know regarding Sun N Fun 2021.

The show is on, Tavares is hosting its Annual Planes, Tunes & BBQ Splash In the week before and as always we expect a few rare and unusual seaplanes to be on display.

Learn about the dates, times and what to expect.

Did you know the Seaplane Foundation offers a seaplane rating scholarship? In this episode Steve & Abbie speak with Terry Hayes the Chairperson of the Tyler Orsow / Chuck Kimes Memorial Seaplane Rating Scholarship.

This heartfelt episode with Terry, the mother of Tyler Orsow, discusses the two amazing pilots that inspired this scholarship program. Listeners will learn everything they need to know about how to apply for the scholarship and how to donate to support the next generation of seaplane pilots.

Matt Sigfrinius, general manager of Aerocet Floats joins Steve & Abbie to discuss the evolution of their composite float offering, what seaplane pilots should know about composite seaplane floats and what we can expect from Aerocet in the future.

Newly rated seaplane pilot and SPA member Kelli O Donnell has been putting her new found passion for seaplane flying into action. She joins Abbie & Steve in this episode to discuss how she has sent over 200 updates and additions to the SPA Water Landing Directory app and why; most importantly how you can help us make it better by your updates and add requests to the app.

Join SPA at:

seaplanes.org 863-701-7979

Mark Wrasse - SPA Water Landing Directory App Director

[email protected]

Deon Mitton, pilot, photographer, blogger, YouTuber, documentarian, pretty much every media you could imagine joins Steve & Abbie to discuss his adventures flying seaplanes.

Lacey Charvet from Southern Seaplane joins Steve & Abbie in the first on of an on going series of seaplane schools spotlight episodes.

Join Steve & Abbie as they discuss five things pilots should consider before purchasing a flying boat seaplane such as a Lake Amphibian.

Corey Johnson discusses what he learn going through the process of purchase of his first seaplane a Lake Amphibian flying boat. This highly experienced pilot, did extensive research before taking the plunge into seaplane ownership.

Join Steve and Abbie for a discussion with Ciara O Toole on the wonders that await seaplane pilots in Lake Como, Italy. Learn about the amazing history of the world's oldest seaplane base and Ciara's journey accidentally discovering the joys of seaplane flying.

Jim Hartwell discusses information that they are recommending to seaplane pilots in British Columbia. North Star Practices is a voluntary program to help reduce seaplane fatalities which started as a protocol for commercial seaplane operators, but is extending to Canada's private seaplane operators as well.

In this episode Steve and Abbie have a revealing discussion with Warren Curry from Icon Aircraft. If you have any interest in aviation or are a pilot, especially a seaplane pilot, you have heard of the Icon A5. The company has been promoting the heck out of this fascinating little flying boat for many years, but they have had more than their share of challenges bringing it to fruition. This episode provides a new perspective on the training mindset at Icon, which sets a new standard for LSAs, as well as the long evolution of the aircraft itself. After listening to the episode you can decide for yourself if Icon is finally meeting the challenges of the seaplane marketplace and will achieve success.

East Hampton, New York is prosing a ban that would prevent seaplanes from using water within their city limits. The Seaplane Pilots Association is committed to working with seaplane operators, city officials, and local residents to create a solution that insures fair and equal access to seaplane operators while satisfying the concerns expressed by the city and local residents.

This podcast was recorded shortly after a city commission hearing on Thursday January 7, 2021 that Steve McCaughey and Eric Weaver who operates a Cessna Caravan into East Hampton participated in.

We have some New Years resolutions for seaplane pilots. Join Steve & Abbie to learn what you can do to be a safer seaplane pilot in 2021, how you can help the community and enjoy the process along the way.

• Get Proficient; especially before carrying passengers and a plane load of gear
• Try something new - a new rating, fly a new aircraft, get mountain training or fly in a different geographic area with an instructor
• Mentor a new Seaplane Pilot in 2021
• Use Checklists & Acronyms
• Wear PFD's & know how to use them
• Volunteer with SPA to help us further our promotion and protection of the water flying community

Contact us via [email protected]

Join SPA at seaplanes.org

As much of the country came to a halt due to Covid lockdowns and aviation events were canceled around the world - the Seaplane Pilots Association put their heads down and got to work on high value activities such as building a new website, working with US Fish & Wildlife on invasive species and assembling a seaplane and floats manufactures committee to address gaps in seaplane safety. Learn more about SPA's activities in 2020 with this insightful "Year in Review."

Steve & Abbie are joined by the only seaplane CFI in the world that is a factory authorized instructor in the Progressive Aerodyne Searey, the Icon A5 and Super Petrel LSA's.

Mike Pearson has over 5,000 hours flight time, over 1,000 of which has been in LSA seaplanes. With a wide range of experience he has a unique level and knowledge to answer the question of this episode; "Are LSA's Real Seaplanes?"

The world's largest float manufacture Wipaire celebrated it's 60th anniversary in 2020, so we invited Chuck Wiplinger the companies CEO and Seaplane Pilots Association Board member on the show to discuss the colorful history of the Wipaire, their products and what we can expect to see from them in the future.

wipaire.com

seaplanes.org

Seaplane Pilots like all pilots usually have a significant wish list. Join Steve & Abbie as they discuss some of the things on their seaplane pilot's Christmas wish list.

Legendary seaplane mechanic Harry Shannon joins Steve & Abbie to discuss seaplane corrosion, prevention and the most effective approach to combating corrosion in this highly informative episode.

Learn how to avoid costly mistakes in your approach to maintaining seaplanes.

Contact Harry Shannon via AmphibiansPlus.com or 863-534-8025

Steve and Abbie sit down with our resident seaplane photographer Brad Fuller to discuss how we get the amazing seaplane photos that appear in Water Flying magazine. Brad has spent the majority of his life shooting film, video and still photos; much of that from boats and airplanes. He is respected as one of the best in the industry and we are so very fortunate to have him on our team.

Join Steve and Abbie as they battle it out over one of the fundamental debates in the water flying world: which seaplane float reigns supreme--straight or amphibious? As the owner of a PA-18 Super Cub on amphibious floats, Steve argues on the side of pontoons with wheels while Abbie, as a flight instructor teaching on straight floats, champions the simple life. 

Whether you are buying a seaplane and weighing your float options or just in the mood for a good-natured and revealing debate, tune in.

The gloves are coming off, so pick a side and lay down your bets!

Steve and Abbie sit down with NASA astronaut Story Musgrave immediately after he successfully completed his check ride for the Single-Engine Sea rating.

SPA Lifetime Member and Seaplane Pilot Foundation donor Story Musgrave is the first astronaut to appear on the “Water Flying” podcast. 

You will enjoy our discussion with a truly remarkable aviator. Story has flown more than 170 different types of aircraft, he is the only astronaut to fly all five space shuttle aircraft, he fixed the Hubble telescope, and he has flown more than 25 million miles in orbit around our planet.

We are honored to have Story Musgrave, the newest member of the seaplane pilot fraternity, as our guest on the “Water Flying” podcast.

Learn first hand from Levi Guimond about what goes on behind the scenes manufacturing PK floats and the challenges of flying seaplanes in Maine.

The first episode of a continuing series with seaplane and float manufacturers.

SPA Colorado Field Director, Ray Hawkins, joins Steve & Abbie to discuss the challenges of gaining seaplane access in Colorado. Despite significant opposition, progress is being made. Learn why seaplane access in Colorado could set an important precedent for waterway access for all seaplane pilots.

SPA Field Director Mark Wrasse explores where seaplanes can and cannot land with Steve & Abbie. There are tools to help determine this such as SPA's Water Landing Directory app, but to the surprise of many the answer is not an easy one.

Join Steve & Abbie as they speak with Daniel Bolton (AKA ThatMallardGuy) about his experiences as a commercial turbine Mallard pilot in Australia, and the seaplane journey's that have influenced the creation of his wildly successful seaplane podcast "On The Step."

Steve & Abbie sit down with Mark Twombly the editor of Water Flying magazine to discuss his recent experience earning his multi-engine seaplane rating in an Aircam on amphibious floats.

Steve & Abbie discuss the process of getting your single engine seaplane rating.

Join Steve & Abbie as they discuss the "Why" you should get your seaplane rating. Learn from the experiences of this owner operator and an active seaplane CFI as they discuss one of the most frequently asked questions fielded by the SPA staff.