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CA.IV.L.R2eFAA-S-ACS-7B · Nov 2023Risk management

e. Water surface/condition

ACS element text (the applicant demonstrates understanding of)

Effects of: e. Water surface/condition

Bottom line

Operating on the surface in rough conditions exposes the seaplane to forces that can potentially cause damage or, in some cases, overturn the seaplane. Water conditions that cause no difficulty for small boats can be too rough for a seaplane. Avoid downwind landings on rough water or in strong winds.

FAA references

  1. SEA ch. 3 (p. 3-3) — FAA-H-8083-23
  2. SEA ch. 6 (p. 6-7) — FAA-H-8083-23
  3. SEA ch. 6 (p. 6-8) — FAA-H-8083-23
  4. RMH ch. 3 (p. 3-7) — FAA-H-8083-2A
  5. AIM 7-6-14 (Flying in Flat Light, Brown Out Conditions, and White Out Conditions) — AIM Basic 2/20/25 w/ Change 1 (8/7/25) & Change 2 (1/22/26)
  6. SEA ch. 9 (p. 9-4) — FAA-H-8083-23
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