Canada has a vast and varied landscape to explore. There is nothing better than finding a hidden gem in the heart of Canada that provides stunning views, rich wildlife, and the perfect setting for a family getaway, a hunting trip, or a memorable weekend with friends.
However, some of the best places are not easily accessible, and that is what allows them to maintain their pretty and pristine environment. Seaplanes are one of the most exhilarating ways to travel to some of the most stunning areas of the country. But where exactly do they land?
An aircraft that can complete water landings, namely a seaplane, has often been called a flying boat, because these machines merge both the aquatic abilities of a boat and the flying abilities of a plane.
The uniqueness of a seaplane does mean that a lot of people have questions about them. What type of seaplane does what, does a seaplane land on a runway, does a seaplane only land in water? These are all reasonable questions, and to help you learn more about how exactly a seaplane works, we have created this guide to all things seaplane-related.
Can seaplanes land on land?
Some seaplanes can land on land as they are equipped with wheels. However, the majority of seaplanes are designed to land only on bodies of water since they are equipped with floats.
Although seaplane pilots can safely land on land if an emergency situation occurs, there are so many bodies of water in Quebec that even in severe situations a water landing is possible!
The most beautiful lakes in Quebec
Can seaplanes land on any water?
In theory, yes seaplanes can land on any navigable water, although there are some limitations. Indeed, you need to have permission to land on certain bodies of water, and of course, the appropriate safety conditions.
Although seaplanes can land on private bodies of water, oceans, or even lakes and rivers, if the pilot does not have permission to land there, they cannot do so. Some bodies of water are open and others are closed, so pilots need to check ahead whether or not they can land where they want to.
Although there is a directory that informs pilots of whether they can legally land their planes on specific bodies of water, if they are unsure, it is best to call the individual or organization that controls the said body of water to prevent illegal landing.
Can seaplanes land on runways?
Certain seaplanes have no problem landing on runways, such as the DHC-3T Turbo Otter which also lands on snow if equipped with skis instead of floats. These are referred to as amphibious aircraft because they can take off and land both on runways or water. However, seaplanes can only take off and land on water.
History of the DHC-3 Otter Aircraft
How much runway does a seaplane need?
Although a seaplane does not need a traditional land-based runway, it still needs a runway. The distance of the runway depends on the type of seaplane, the motors, and overall weight. You should always check the local regulation to see how much space you legally need to land your seaplane.
The conditions of the body of water that you are going to land in are also important. For example, the body of water cannot be too narrow or too shallow. These are all elements that you need to take into consideration to find a good landing spot for a seaplane.
Are seaplanes harder to land?
Many consider seaplanes to be more difficult to land. Seaplanes are not afforded all the luxuries of a normal aircraft. When landing in the middle of the wilderness, you do not have airport control, additional lighting, and a stable runway.
However, in individual cases, it can be easier for seaplane pilots to land on water, especially if the conditions are perfect. After all, seaplane pilots are professionals who have their seaplane rating and are good at what they do. They are trained in water landings so they are no more difficult for them than regular landings.
Do seaplanes have landing gear?
The main piece of landing gear that seaplanes have are called seaplane floats. The floats are what allow seaplanes to land on water. Whilst a true seaplane will have straight floats which restrict it to water landing only, amphibious aircraft are made to float on the belly of the plane.
The floats essentially work as a buoyancy aid to the plane and ensure it does not sink when it touches the water. Within the float there are steerable mechanisms to help you navigate once the aircraft has landed. The landing gear on a seaplane requires a lot of maintenance as it needs to be washed and maintained after every flight.
Seaplane transport services
If you have any planned trips or are wanting to visit an area of Quebec that is only accessible by seaplane, our services are perfect for you. Our pilots love nothing more than flying and sharing the beautiful vistas of the vast territories in the Far North of Quebec.
Our transportation services can be customized so that you get exactly what you want out of your trip. We can organize hunting and fishing trips, extended range seaplane flights, or even just scenic flights to allow you to witness the beauty of the Quebec countryside from the air.
We have three different kinds of seaplanes, all of which offer customers a unique and unforgettable experience. If you are claustrophobic, we have the Otter seaplane which allows customers to fly in fairly large cabins, if you want a taste of history, a flight in the Beaver will be perfect for you as it is a plane that was created following the harsh condition of WW2, and if it is speed you are after, the Turbine Otter has you covered.
