Historical overview: The development of water flight
As early as the spring of 1912, the American Glenn Curtiss His "Flying Fish" was the first successful take-off of a seaplane from Lake Keuka. His aim was to combine water sports and aviation and create a flying sports machine for the wealthy upper classes. In Europe, on the other hand, development was more difficult. It was not until the French engineer François Denhaut constructed a successful prototype with his flying boat, but it failed in an attempt to cross the English Channel.
In Germany, the Dornier Do X Fame. This twelve-engined passenger flying boat took off from Lake Constance to cross the Atlantic in order to attract potential buyers. Despite its technical innovations and impressive size, commercial success failed to materialise and the Do X ultimately found its place in a museum.
Current situation: Seaplane flights in Germany
In Germany, seaplanes are strictly regulated. In principle, landing on bodies of water is prohibited unless there are specially authorised water landing sites. There are currently only three such sites Special landing sites:
- Flensburg-SonwikLocated in the Flensburg Fjord, this site offers water pilots the opportunity to land about 500 metres from the shore.
- HubertushöheThis water landing site is located in the town of Storkow (Mark) in the Oder-Spree district of Brandenburg. Wikipedia
- Lake SedlitzLocated in Brandenburg, this airfield requires special safety precautions, such as having a rescue boat on standby at all times during flight operations.
The strict regulations result from environmental and nature conservation requirements as well as the protection of residents from noise pollution. In comparison, other countries, such as Sweden, are more liberal. There, pilots only have to avoid certain protected areas, which makes seaplane flying much easier.
Training: The path to a seaplane licence
Pilots need a special licence to fly a seaplane. Seaplane licence (Seaplane Rating). This is an extension of the existing pilot licence and does not require an additional boatmaster licence. The training focuses on specific manoeuvres such as taking off, landing and manoeuvring on the water.
In Germany, specialised flight schools offer this training. For example, the Baltic Seaplane GmbH in Flensburg to obtain a seaplane licence in around four to five days. The training includes theoretical lessons and at least eight flying hours on a Cessna 172P Amphibium.
Modern seaplanes: diversity and innovation
The range of seaplanes available extends from classic models to modern ultralight aircraft. One notable example is the SeaReyan amphibious aircraft that can operate on both water and land. This model offers pilots flexibility and opens up a wide range of possible uses.
Another innovative approach is the electric seaplane "Noemi" the Elfly Group. This emission-free aircraft represents the future of environmentally friendly water flight and shows that sustainability and aviation can be successfully combined.
Conclusion: Potential and prospects for seaplanes in Germany
Despite the existing regulations and limited landing sites, seaplane flying is becoming increasingly popular in Germany. The combination of flying freedom and the ability to reach remote waters makes this type of flying particularly appealing. With advancing technology and a possible rethink in regulation, further opportunities could open up for seaplane enthusiasts in Germany in the future.
Source references:
Aviation magazine