Water Flying Aviation Podcast

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.orgEmail 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, 2021Time: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PMTime 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 StappLocation:Wooton ParkAddress:100 E. Ruby StreetTavares, FL 32778Contact: 352-742-6176Email: Cheri MoanCost:FREELink: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.comseaplanes.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.comSuper 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.orgSeaplanes.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 atFlyLift.orgDonate 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 atSeaplanes.orgSpeak 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 863-701-7979Mark Wrasse - SPA Water Landing Directory App [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.