Seaplane pilot safety device introduced — General Aviation News
By darion · July 20, 2024
Holy Micro!, manufacturer of the FAA-approved SkyVoice Alert 500, has
introduced the SkyVoice Glassy Guide 400, an FAA-approved device
designed to enhance the safety and precision of surface takeoffs and
landings.
The new device solves one of the most difficult problems in piloting a seaplane: judging altitude above featureless, glassy water, according to its inventor Frank Kunnumpurath.
For seaplane and floatplane pilots, the consequences of misjudging the height above glassy water can be catastrophic, he noted. Landing on glassy water is considered the most dangerous maneuver for seaplane pilots, posing a serious challenge even for experienced aviators.
The lack of surface contour makes it difficult to judge the aircraft’s height above the water, which can lead to accidents such as stalling at too high an altitude or hitting the water too quickly.
Traditionally, seaplane pilots have relied on primitive methods, such as throwing sticks and rocks into the water to create small waves and floating markers to gauge their height. But these techniques are far from foolproof and can be cumbersome during critical takeoff and landing moments, according to company officials.
SkyVoice Glassy Guide 400 is an altitude notification and reminder system that provides altitude information from 30 to 120 meters.
The device provides a smooth and safe landing on water, the company said, and the reported altitudes are 400 feet, 300 feet, 200 feet, 100 feet, 70 feet, 50 feet, 20 feet, 10 feet, 5 feet, 2 feet and 1 foot.
“During takeoff, the SkyVoice Glassy Guide 400 continues to provide altitude announcements up to 400 feet, providing a positive rate of climb and minimizing the risk of accidental descent or return to water,” the company said.
SkyVoice Glassy Guide 400 mounted on a Cessna’s pad.
Amphibious pilots also can use the option of four reminders at altitudes between 100 and 400 feet to “check the landing gear” after taking off from land, another level of safety, officials added.
SkyVoice Glassy Guide 400 is available now for both certified and experimental aircraft. Price: $1,650.
More information: HolyMicro.com