Seaplane Skiplane Flying Menu > Rules, Regulations, and Aids for Navigation > Seaplane Regulations

Because of the nature of seaplane operations, certain regulations apply. Most of them are set forth in Title 14of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) parts 1, 61, and 91.

Figure 1-1. Seaplane is a class.

Just as land-based pilots must understand airport operations, the pilot certification requirements in 14 CFR part 61 require seaplane pilots to know and use the rules for seaplane base operations.

Specific regulations recognize the unique characteristics of water operations. For example, 14 CFR part 61, section 61.31 takes into account that seaplanes seldom have retractable landing gear as such, so an endorsement to act as pilot in command of a complex seaplane requires training in a seaplane with flaps and a controllable pitch propeller. Likewise, in 14 CFR part 91, section 91.107, there is an exception to the rule that everyone must have a seat and wear a seatbelt during movement on the surface. The person pushing off or mooring a seaplane at a dock is authorized to move around while the seaplane is in motion on the surface.