News & Media Wagstaff leads Sporty's new seaplane course

Wagstaff leads Sporty's new seaplane course

January 22, 2026 By Dave Hirschman

The new Sporty’s video training course on seaplane flying is a visual feast.

Photo courtesy of Sporty's.
Zoomed image
Photo courtesy of Sporty's.

Filmed in Florida, Maine, and Alaska, Sporty’s Seaplane Rating Course includes practical advice as well as the inspiration that comes from watching seaplanes in some of the most pristine natural areas in the United States.

The course is hosted by aerobatic champion Patty Wagstaff, who began her aviation career in Alaska and offers lots of tips and tricks on subjects ranging from glassy-water takeoffs and landings to beaching, mooring, and docking.

The Sporty’s Seaplane Rating Course is designed for pilots seeking an initial single-engine seaplane certificate or rating—but it’s also a helpful and inspiring refresher for existing seaplane pilots and anyone else who enjoys spectacular scenery and learning more about water flying.

Video in the course features airplanes flying on straight floats and amphibious floats as well as flying boats.

The Sporty’s Seaplane Rating Course currently sells for $99 and previews are available online.

Photo courtesy of Sporty's.
Dave Hirschman
Dave Hirschman
AOPA Pilot Editor at Large
AOPA Pilot Editor at Large Dave Hirschman joined AOPA in 2008. He has an airline transport pilot certificate and instrument and multiengine flight instructor certificates. Dave flies vintage, historical, and Experimental airplanes and specializes in tailwheel and aerobatic instruction.
Go to Dave Hirschman's Profile
Topics: Training and Safety, Backcountry, Technique

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