Flight School - Float Rating

*Please note: Flight School is not in service during the Olympic period.
(January 29th to March 24th)

A Float Rating allows a pilot the freedom to safely operate single-engine airplanes equipped with floats from water surfaces. This training can be applied to the Recreational Pilot Permit, Private Pilot License, Commercial Pilot License or Airline Transport Pilot License.

Sea to Sky Air is authorized by Transport Canada to provide training towards a Float Rating. This training requires a minimum of 7 hours total flight time in float equipped aircraft, of which 6 hours must be dual (with a float instructor). There is a solo (as the sole occupant of the aircraft) requirement for 5 takeoff and landings. Upon satisfactory completion of the flight training, the flight instructor certifies that all requirements have been met and the student will be authorized for solo float flying or float flying with passengers. (Due to insurance, most companies including Sea to Sky Air require a minimum of 50 hours of float experience before renting the floatplane for private use) There is no written exam or flight test required although there is a fair amount of background knowledge required for flying floats which will be met through intensive ground briefings prior to each flight.

Sea to Sky Air has a float base located downtown Squamish on the inner harbour about 15 minutes drive from our office at Squamish airport. Typical float training will take place in Howe Sound and nearby areas of Georgia Strait using a Cessna 172 floatplane.

The student may also have the opportunity to operate from fresh water lakes and rivers giving an all around excellent learning experience. There is no shortage of spectacular and challenging areas for float training near Squamish!

Prior to starting the training towards a Float Rating, the student must have successfully completed the Recreational Pilot Permit or a higher class of pilot license.
The following cost estimate has been provided to assist those who are interested in pursuing a Float Rating and is based on 7 hours of float time. Although prices may vary slightly due to individual skill and local conditions, the following is a fairly accurate account of what is to be expected: