Sporty’s Pilot Training App Adds Stunning New Seaplane Rating Course

Pilots who want to trade the runway for the water now have a new reason to open the Sporty’s Pilot Training app. The app has been updated with a completely new Seaplane Rating Course, combining expert instruction, immersive visuals, and practical training that prepares pilots for the unique challenges of flying on water.

Filmed on location in Florida, Maine, and Alaska, the course features cinematic 4K video, multiple camera angles, and detailed animations to show seaplane flying as it really happens—on moving water, in changing conditions, and in some of the world’s most beautiful flying environments.

Pilots using the app will learn:

• How to transition confidently from landplanes to seaplanes
• The key differences between floatplanes, amphibious aircraft, and flying boats
• Techniques for taxiing, taking off, and landing on water
• How to evaluate wind, water, and landing areas
• Best practices for docking, beaching, mooring, and securing a seaplane

The course also covers advanced seaplane operations, including glassy water takeoffs.

The course also covers advanced seaplane operations, including glassy and rough water landings, confined areas, river operations, flap management, and hull speed awareness—skills that build judgment, safety, and proficiency beyond the checkride.

Instruction is led by Patty Wagstaff, one of aviation’s most respected pilots and educators. Known for her precision and safety-focused approach, Wagstaff brings decades of experience to teach techniques that are practical, repeatable, and grounded in sound aeronautical decision-making.

Instruction is led by Patty Wagstaff, one of aviation’s most respected pilots and educators.

A unique 360°/VR Adventure Flying module complements the structured lessons, letting pilots experience iconic aircraft and stunning locations—from Alaska to Florida—while providing a behind-the-scenes look at how the course was made. It’s a chance to enjoy the sights and sounds of seaplane flying in a completely immersive way.

Other features in the app include:

• Lesson quizzes and a comprehensive course review quiz
• Completion certificate
• Downloadable reference materials, including the Seaplane Flying Handbook and FAA safety guidance
• Full access across devices via the Sporty’s Pilot Training app
• Accepted for WINGS credit

Whether you’re pursuing a seaplane rating or just love the idea of flying on water, the Sporty’s Pilot Training app now makes it easy to learn anywhere, anytime. The new Seaplane Rating Course is available in the app for just $99.

Get the Updated App

The Seaplane Rating Course is available now in the Sporty’s Pilot Training app for iOS, Android, and smart TVs.

iPhone/iPad – download the free app here

Android – download the free app here

Apple Computer – download the free app here

AppleTV – go to the App Store on AppleTV (4th Gen or newer) and search for Pilot Training

FireTV – search for Sporty’s Pilot Training to download the app (preview the app here)

AndroidTV – search for Sporty’s Pilot Training to download the app (preview the app here)

RokuTV App – search for the Sporty’s Pilot Training Channel on your Roku device

Online – visit Sporty’s Course Catalog and purchase direct access to any course

Bonus Video: Glassy Water Landings

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Eric Radtke

It was his first airplane trip at age seven that made Eric decide to become a pilot. "While boarding the airplane, a flight attendant noticed my interest in the flight deck and urged me to go talk to the pilot. I give a lot of credit to that pilot for my career choice." Eric earned a bachelor’s degree in finance and went on to an airline career. He learned to fly at Sporty’s as part of the University of Cincinnati’s Professional Pilot Program, an initiative he later directed. Eric now manages Sporty’s media network. In addition, Eric serves as a Captain in a Cincinnati-based corporate flight department.

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