Normal Seaplane Takeoff

A few notes to recap the video above:

  • Do use carb heat prior to takeoff to ensure you do not have carburetor ice.
  • Do use a mnemonic device or other memory aid to ensure you are ready for takeoff (i.e. CARS, Carb Heat, Area, Rudders, Stick/Safety Belt)
  • Porpoising is most often due to the incorrect attitude (nose low or high), and most of the time, is corrected with a little back pressure on the yoke or stick.
  • If you cannot correct the porpoising quickly, close the throttle, hold the yoke or stick back, and return to displacement taxi.
  • Water drag increases at the square of the speed, meaning the faster the floats go on the water, the more drag there is exponentially.  Tailwinds, high-density altitude, heavy loading, and glassy water can all contribute to making you “stuck to the water” requiring a higher water speed for liftoff.  At some point drag equals thrust and the seaplane stops accelerating, you may not be able to takeoff until conditions change.
  • CHOOSE AN ABORT POINT AND STICK TO IT

Abort Points and what happens when you do not use them

Flying Boats