Floatplane Endorsments

[Luca_brasi]

Whereabouts can a floatplane endorsment be done and roughly how much will it cost and what type of aircraft will it be done on??

Im currently living in ML but prepared to go anywhere else to get it done.

Thanks in advance

[Luca_brasi]

Thanks for that, one thing i did forget

How is the theory side covered? i.e what is required to be done and known?

[429 CJ]

A boat licence (and a pilot's licence, of course), and a keen attitude for the "attitude flying" that makes up the bulk of the endo. Theory will be covered by your training provider (whoever you select), and is not difficult, but requires some real understanding of some of the concepts involved.

Enjoy, (I also hope you like pumping floats, one tends to "get over" that rather quickly).

[Capt Fathom]

Damn scary things those floatplanes.
At least in a landplane, once you're on the ground you are reasonably safe. In a floatplane, the safest place is in the air.

[TR2]

You can try Air Whitsunday up in Airlie Beach QLD, they teach in Beavers and they are also a charter company. If your there at the right time you may even get a job.
Good luck, flying floats are great and the experience will always keep you on your toes.

[daytrader]

Melbourne Seaplanes.
Very nice C185's.
Call Rod or Leonie on 0418 688 388.
www.seaplane.com.au

[Luca_brasi]

Thanks guys for all the info, im looking forward to the challenge though its a couple of months away.

Im curious about the boat license, will i need that before i go for the endorsment or is it included within the training?

[429 CJ]

Not included as part of a rating. In some states, the aircraft has to even carry a marine rego number as well, or at least they used too anyway.

Spend the time and money to do the whole thing fairly well on consecutive days, too. Will help you heaps, especially with things like engine failures in confined areas while trying to assess the wind/ current/ traffic both in the air and on the water/cockpit checks (gear - if fitted/ ie; amphib)/and the favoured glassy water dead engine approach, all rolled into one approach!

Will definetly keep you on your toes.

Once again, relax, learn, and enjoy!

Go for it!

[CurtissJenny]

Floatplane Endorsements

Melbourne Seaplanes currently has only one C185 operational and it is not being overworked.
You will not be asked if you have a boat drivers licence, as and when you go for a float endorsement, but the experience apparently helps. My float plane mate advises me that having boating experience gives you knowledge and skills that you will/can use when flying floats.
PS. Wear slip-on boating type footwear.

[Luca_brasi]

Thanks guys for all the replies,

I think ill give the Melbourne one a bit more of a look, any idea how much it costs per hour? or to do an endorsment?

Also what are job prospects ike in general with floatplanes?

[429 CJ]

Have heard that many operators require anywhere from 500-1000 hrs before letting land pilots near the floaties. 800hrs is the mark the local floatie operator has put on his "upcomings". Have heard of earlier but it is rare.

[Luca_brasi]

Is that for the endorsment or for employment 429CJ??

Im thinking it would be for employment but just want to be sure

[429 CJ]

Sorry mate, the endo. You may be lucky enough to score a guy who will help you get those required float hours (quite often 200 water landings), but do your homework first!