Seaplanes and amphibious aircraft require specialised engineering for hydrodynamic performance, structural loads, and water operation certification. Hull design determines water handling characteristics and structural requirements. Water impact loads exceed conventional landing scenarios and require dedicated analysis. We provide hydrodynamic analysis, structural engineering, and certification support based on established methods and operational experience.
What We Deliver
Hydrodynamic Analysis
Hull geometry analysis using Wagner impact theory and empirical NACA methods. Resistance prediction, planing characteristics, and spray pattern assessment. Design recommendations for step position, deadrise angles, and hull proportions. Computational fluid dynamics validation and water basin test coordination.
Structural Design & Repairs
Hull structural analysis for water impact loads. Corrosion assessment and repair scheme development for marine environment exposure. Structural modifications including float installations, hull reinforcements, and sponson structures. Compliance with CS-23/CS-25 structural requirements and damage tolerance concepts.
Stability Analysis
Porpoising stability prediction through hydrodynamic coupling analysis. Water handling characteristics assessment and critical speed range identification. Design modifications to eliminate dynamic instabilities during planing operations. Step taxi behaviour evaluation.
Flight & Ground Test Engineering
Test programme development for water operations certification. Data acquisition system specification and instrumentation planning. Test execution coordination within client DOA frameworks. Compliance demonstration for water handling, spray characteristics, and performance validation.
Mission Fit Analysis
Operational requirements analysis for seaplane missions. Wave height limitations, wind constraints, and water surface requirements. Performance analysis for specific operational conditions. Configuration trade studies for aircraft selection decisions.
Certification Support
Regulatory pathway development for seaplane modifications and new designs. Compliance substantiation for CS-23/CS-25 water operation requirements. Coordination with EASA/FAA certification authorities. STC application support and approval management.
Technical Programme Leadership
Lead engineer role for seaplane development programmes. Multidisciplinary coordination across hydrodynamics, structures, flight test, and certification. Integration management ensuring alignment between design requirements, analytical validation, and regulatory compliance.
Our Approach
We apply hydrodynamic methods from NACA research combined with modern computational tools to address certification requirements. Engineering analysis addresses both performance optimisation and structural compliance under CS-23 and CS-25 airworthiness codes. Work is coordinated with certification authorities to maintain clear approval pathways. Solutions are developed for practical implementation considering manufacturing, maintenance, and operational constraints.
Typical Deliverables
Engineering Analysis
- Hydrodynamic analysis reports
- Structural load calculations
- Stability assessment documentation
- Performance analysis
- Design optimisation studies
Technical Documentation
- Structural repair procedures
- Flight test programmes
- Compliance demonstration reports
- Engineering substantiation data
- Technical specifications
Certification Support
- EASA/FAA compliance documentation
- STC application packages
- Certification basis determination
- Authority coordination records
- Continued airworthiness documentation