A viable way to build floatplane hours......

[CraigyD]

Hi all,

I have recently been looking into a way financially viable way for me to build float plane hours once I get my CPL next year. My search has found the Swedish Ultra Flyers Club who have a Euro Cub on floats. The costs I am told are approximately as follows, at todays exchange rate:

Initial joining fee - SEK20,000 (£1,909.51) (I would intend to remain a long term member so this fee doesn't put me off too much).

Annual membership - SEK6,000 (£573.04).

Hourly rate - SEK450-750 (£42.97-71.64) (Not sure if this is a dry or wet rate. Either way, not bad rates I think!).

I think this is the cheapest way I can get float time and will be a great social scene as well I am sure! Buying a share in a float plane is a bit out of my reach financially it would seem.

So I guess my question is, for those 'in the know', how would float operators view hours on LSA aircraft? I know the aircraft type will not be considered overly complex, but it is still float operations! (I am limited to work in Europe by the way due to right to work and so on).

Also, if there are any people here who are members of the Swedish Seaplane Association or Swedish Transport Agency, many thanks for your help with my research and questions. You have been extremely helpful :ok:

Craigyd

[WILCO.XMG]

Try this school; The Amphibious Flying Club (http://www.the-amphib-flyingclub.co.uk/)

The are based in the lakes of Ireland. Have a great set up too.

Not sure about the cost but it won't be anywhere near that sort of membership costing. They have waived membership costs this year in light of economic client.

They also can give you a float plane instructors rating if you fancy that sort of thing.

[JumpJumpJump]

I would recommend Land and Sea Aviation in Alaska. You will not get much better flying than that.

I loved it, totally awesome.