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Every year people are seriously or fatally injured by floatplane propellers. These
accidents can happen when inexperienced persons attempt to assist the pilot in docking the
floatplane, or when the safety zones on the dock, float, or pier are inadequate to protect
bystanders from rotating propellers.
As a pilot, you are the key person in preventing these accidents. Tips:
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Approach the dock with as little speed as practical.
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Stop the engine(s) prior to reaching the dock when possible.
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Approach the dock at a 45 degree angle or less to allow a slower speed for
docking, and provide a wing for dock attendants to catch rather than a turning
propeller.
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Tie the aft float strut to the dock first, as it is the farthest from the propeller. The
bow cleat should not be used until there is no longer a possibility of propeller
rotation.
Never ask an untrained person to hand prop your aircraft.
The airplane engine(s) should be shut down for loading or unloading passengers. Walkways
should be identified by barriers or lines painted on docks, floats, and piers to
direct passengers and bystanders away from the area near the propellers.
Briefing Points
Boarding
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Walk onlyin designated walkways.
- Neverwalk under the wing, except to enter the cabin door.
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Always stay clear of the engine(s) and propeller(s). The danger area is usually
identified by red lines painted on the airplane float.
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Step carefully from the dock or pier, to the airplane float or entry steps.
Exiting
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Step carefully onto the dock, float, or pier and walk only in designated walkways
when provided.
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When walkways are not provided, walk toward the wingtip until clear of the engine(s) and
propeller(s) before changing your exit path.
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Walk to the wingtip before changing your exit path.
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Avoid the area of the engine and propeller of any aircraft whether the engine(s) is running
or not.
Other Safety Considerations During Floatplane Operations
Seatbelts and shoulder belts should be fastened during takeoff and landing.
When provided, life jackets should be worn during taxi, takeoff, and landing. When
floatation cushions are used, each passenger should have one.
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