Frequently Asked Questions
Can a friend fit in the plane during my training?
This decision is made by your instructor. Typically, your training flights have a lot of take offs and landings, which are not very fun for the person in the back. Later in your training it might be possible, but the decision is completely based on your instructor’s recommendations (weight and balance, aircraft type, weather, etc.). We fly a piper pacer and a supercub. The pacer might be able to fit a 3rd person if W&B works out.
Can I bring a friend for free?
Bringing an extra non-flying person is totally fine. It is a very family friendly atmosphere.
Can I get more time in the airplanes?
It is not uncommon for pilots to come and fly more than their course hours. It is $475 per hour for additional flight instruction in the pacer and supercub. See hourly pricing on the home page for more information. Getting more flight hours after the course is common and we are happy to help you reach your goals!
Can I instruct in seaplanes after I receive my seaplane rating?
Yes. If you are a current CFI, you can also instruct in a seaplane once you obtain your commercial seaplane rating.
Can I stay extra nights?
No, our schedules are very tight and you are only allotted the days for your course. Every once in a while there are extenuating circumstances and we take those on a case-by-case basis.
Do I need a car?
You do need a car unless you are prepared to uber everywhere. The seaplane base at Lake Hood is about 10-15 from the home base. Please contact us for car rental information at 907-414-3930. The vehicles are $150/day.
Do I need a U.S. certificate to fly with you?
You do not need a U.S. certificate if you are taking the bush course or not getting a rating.
IF YOU ARE GETTING A SEAPLANE RATING – THEN YES!
You can get a U.S PPL based on foreign license.
Do I need to bring my own headset?
You do not need to bring your own headset. We have bose headsets in the aircraft.
Do you have any additional fees?
Yes, the ASES checkride if $850, cash only. There is also a 5% bed tax that is required by the state and charged to the lodging portion of the course.
Do you provide food?
No, you must go grocery shopping or plan to go out to eat for your meals. There are lots of great restaurants in Anchorage that are very close by!
Do you rent your planes solo?
No. We do not rent the aircrafts without an instructor onboard.
How much experience should I have to take your courses?
Even if you just received your private certificate you will benefit greatly from our courses. The seaplane rating is a blast and the bush and mountain flying courses are also an amazing experience.
Anyone, even if they do not have their PPL, can take a discovery flight lesson or a course. If you have your commercial license, then your seaplane add-on will be a commercial ASES.
Is the checkride extra?
Yes. You pay the DPE $850 cash.
What clothes should I bring?
Please look at weather for Anchorage before you travel. Layers are always recommended as temperatures can range from 50*-90*F.
What if I need more time to train for the checkride?
We want you to be confident and competent for your check ride. Visit our Courses Page. If you have the flexibility, we are happy to spend more time flying with you until you feel confident. Our flight instructors are very good and they will not sign you off unless you are ready. Typically, in a 5 day course, it is enough time to be properly prepared. If you want to prepare ahead of time for the oral exam, that is always recommended. You can read the book “Notes of a Seaplane Instructor” by Burke Mees and the FAA Seaplane Flying Handbook (for free online).
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept credit cards, checks or U.S. dollars.
What should I bring for flight training?
You must have a US-issued pilot certificate, current medical and current photo ID (driver license or passport). A passport or birth certificate is required for identification if you lack a valid signoff. All foreign applicants must have a passport and a stand alone US certificate based on a foreign license certificate.
What type of planes do you fly?
We have a Piper Pacer (PA-22) and a Piper Supercub (PA-18) airplane located on Lake Hood in Anchorage.
When does billable flight time begin?
Flight time here starts when the master switch is turned on- Hobbs Time.
In some countries they only count “wheels up” time or airspeed above 20 knots, but that is not the case here.
Did you used to be located in Talkeetna?
Yes, we used to be located at Christiansen Lake Seaplane Base in Talkeetna. We have moved to Lake Hood in Anchorage. This location offers an exciting floatplane community, easy access, many amenities of city life, and still exciting wildlife and remote exploration.
