Why offer an amphibious plane or seaplane?
Every LSA is restricted to a maximum speed of 120 kts. Given this constraint, a seaplane can be designed with virtually identical performance to a land-based LSA. Further, since the LSA rules allow a higher gross weight (1430 lbs vs. 1320 lbs) and retractable landing gear, a well designed LSA amphibian gives you all the utility of a comparable land LSA, while also giving you the unmatched freedom and fun of a seaplane.
What size body of water is required to operate a seaplane?
The FAA recommends that bodies of water designated as seaplane bases be at least 2,500 feet long by 200 feet wide with a depth of three feet or more, plus free of floating debris or submerged obstacles. In addition, a 20:1 glide path to the landing lane is the recommended minimum for obstacle clearance. ICON is capable of landing and taking off in less than 750 feet of linear space.
How do I know if the body of water I want to operate on is approved?
The Seaplane Pilots Association (www.seaplanes.org) is a valuable resource for determining where seaplane operations are permitted. Now in its 10th edition, their Water Landing Directory provides a single reference tool for waterway-use regulations. You may also call the appropriate regulatory agency for the body of water being considered. In general, the USCG considers all waterways it controls open to seaplanes. Once on the water, a seaplane must obey the appropriate rules for a boat.
How do I learn more about seaplane operations?
The Seaplane Pilots Association (SPA) can help you with any questions you have regarding the establishment of seaplane bases or regulations. Info is available at www.seaplanes.org.
What is the environmental impact of seaplanes?
Seaplanes do not significantly impact the environment and compare favorably to conventional motorized boats in areas of air and water pollution, wakes, and disturbance of plants, wildlife, and sediments. Furthermore, according to a study by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, seaplanes have no oily bilge water or sewage discharge, no underwater engine exhaust, propeller, or other underwater protrusions, and seaplanes do not generate a significant wake.
Aren’t seaplanes considered dangerous and noisy intruders?
While seaplanes are louder than many other waterway users, the noise a seaplane generates during takeoff and landing is brief and infrequent. Unlike personal watercraft or ski boats, seaplanes are not a source of ongoing background noise. In most cases, suitable arrival and departure paths can be found to keep seaplane noise to a minimum. The A5 was designed from the beginning to use quieter, four-cycle power plants with low emissions.
Can the A5 taxi out of the water on a ramp under its own power?
Yes. The A5 has demonstrated its ability to taxi out of the water and up a boat ramp on several occasions, maintaining good directional control.
What is the highest acceptable wave for operation in water?
Although water-taxi testing has not been completed, the A5 is intended to operate in wave conditions no greater than 12″.
Can the pilot stand in the cockpit or on the Seawings™ platforms during docking maneuvers?
Yes, the pilot can stand either on the Seawings™ platforms or in the cockpit with the canopy open during docking.
Can the A5 be operated in salt water?
Yes; however, it is likely that ICON will recommend against letting the A5 sit in salt water for a prolonged period due the corrosive environment.
I saw pictures of the airplane flying with the wing in the water. Isn’t that dangerous?
During ongoing hydrodynamic (water) flight testing of the A5, ICON will complete numerous data points to ensure that the airplane performs as designed. The lateral stability provided by the Seawings™ platforms coupled with the planing wingtip is an example. The picture you are referring to was the ICON test pilot completing a series of water-taxi maneuvers to evaluate aircraft roll performance and Seawings™/wingtip stability issues.