safety of floatplanes in pacific northwest
 

hi again. we are considering splurging on a floatplane trip to victoria for a one day excursion. i generally avoid flying on small planes because of safety fears, but since these can land on water, are they considered safer?

Nobody can address your fears better than you, Bucky. The operators are all licensed commercial airline companies, the planes are subject to comprehensive inspections, and the pilots all well experienced in water take-offs and landings. Because they fly slower and lower than other commercial traffic, there's little competition for airspace. According to a brochure published by the floatplane business alliance, Kenmore Air has never had an accident in Seattle, after 30,000+ takeoffs and landings.

thanks gardyloo. you are such a knowledgeble person. and thanks for all the great advice you've posted about seattle. i'll let you know how our trip went.

Sometimes fears make no sense.

When I look at a ski hill, I don't see people falling like rain from those chairlifts, but I'd never get on one.

But, as far as float planes go, here are a couple of things that make help your brain overpower the feeling in your tummy.

First, flying these things (as a pilot) is always a joy, but the pilots all take their work seriously, and are professional airline pilots, just on a really small airline.

And, they want to get home tonight, too, so they are careful and cautious, but they also make sure their passengers get nice views of interesting things.

And, the planes are small and you see the pilots and they see you, and most people are happier, and feel safer, when they know the men and women in charge of their safety.

Now, about the safety of flost planes. The north of Canda was opened up with bush planes. They are particularly strong and stable and rugged and used to flying in tough conditions; much worst that you'll experience. So on your trip you'll be well within the safety limits, with nothing to worry about.

In Victoria, they land in a sheltered harbor, so that's a nice safe place to arrive at, and leave from.

And finally, there's no better way to arrive in Victoria than in a small plane that's low to the ground (but high enough for safty, low enough for a good view). So you're guaranteed to have fun.

My bet is that the enjoyment, good view, sense of adventure, will all outweight your nervousness, and you'll enjoy the trip.

BAK

thanks for the reassuring comments. i tend to be an overly anxious person, and i realize that most of my fears are pretty irrational. i'm working on coping with them, and although i still suffer from anxiety at times, i think i'm making progress. the planes sound so cool, i'm sure my family would love it and i will too if my husband agrees it's worth the high price.

These planes fly between Victoria and Seattle or Vancouver several times a day, day after day, month after month, year in and year out. I can remember only two incidents and both were minor. Personally, I feel more secure on one of these than on many land planes.

Also, remember that if the engine did conk out, there is a handy 'landing strip' available at all times.