Float Compartments, Bilge Pumping & Pre-Flight Inspection

A seaplane preflight includes everything a landplane preflight does plus a thorough check of the floats, rigging, and water-handling systems. Water leaking into the floats is a slow, insidious hazard.

Each watertight compartment has an inspection/pump port on the float deck. Before the first flight of the day you pump every compartment using a hand bilge pump. A small amount of water is normal from condensation and minor seepage; a sudden increase or water in a compartment that was dry yesterday signals a leak or popped rivet that must be investigated.

• Pump from the rear compartments forward as you walk the float, because water migrates aft when the bow is up.
• Note the quantity from each compartment in your habit pattern — trends matter more than a single reading.
• A flooded compartment raises weight and shifts CG, and can make the airplane ride low or list to one side.

1. Float skin: Look for dents, cracks, corrosion, and loose or missing rivets, especially along the keel and chines.
2. Spreader bars, struts, and fittings: Check for cracks, security, and proper rigging. Wires/struts should be taut and undamaged.
3. Water rudders: Confirm free movement, secure retraction cables/springs, and that they extend and retract fully with the cockpit control.
4. Step and keel: Inspect for damage that could disturb the planing surface.
5. Cleats, handrails, and lines: Verify docking lines, paddle, and a bailer are aboard. Carry an anchor and required safety gear.
6. Propeller: On floats the prop is closer to spray; check carefully for nicks and erosion.

While on the water you are operating a vessel. Carry a paddle, an anchor with adequate rode, dock lines, a bailing device, and a personal flotation device (PFD) for each occupant. A throwable PFD and a knife to cut a fouled line are smart additions. The PFD is typically worn but kept un-inflated inside the cabin so it does not trap you if the aircraft inverts.