Float design

[MontrealTom]

I remember having heard or read
that airplane floats create enormous drag
requiring disproportionate power
and lengthy runs for takeoff.

Does anyone know where I can find
discussions on this topic.

Thanks if anyone can help.

[BOHIXON]

Hey MT-

I fly a 206 on floats. Flying it is like having two big canoes on the bottom of your plane. While they do increase drag, they also make the plane more stable, and lower the stall speed a few knots. I've even been told that in cruise, they can create a tiny bit of lift due to the airflow under them. I burn about 4 gph more with the floats on in cruise and lose about 15-20 kts. It sort of takes the economics (if there are any at all in flying) and throws them out the door. But the fun factor is WAY jacked up!!!

Anything else?

[MontrealTom]

Hi BH

Thanks for your reply.

I've never flown a float plane,
but I've flown a variety of small Cessnas,
and have a couple of boats.

Before a boat gets up on plane
it uses disproportionate power.
I'm trying to understand
to what extent this applies to float planes.

I have an idea for float design
that might reduce drag in the water,
but can't find any discussion anywhere.

Thanks for any help.

[BOHIXON]

It's the same idea with the floats. Takes lots of power to get up on step (like planing in a boat) then the real accelleration begins. Float design has been the same for some time now. Something more effecient would be nice. Would love to give any insight/hook you up with some people with more experience than myself. email me.

BoHixon@yahoo.com