Pilots Now Able to Earn Seaplane Rating in Wyoming

Permission is granted after Seaplane Pilots Association representatives meet with locals to discuss preflight and postflight inspections for aquatic invasive species.

Meg Godlewski

Friday, August 30, 2024 at 03:44 PM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Kimberly Johnson

Sheridan Pilots 307 C172 on Wipline 2350A floats. [Courtesy: Wipaire]

Key Takeaways:

Pilots can now receive their single-engine seaplane (SES) rating on Lake De Smet in Wyoming, offered by Sheridan Pilots 307 flight school.
This new access was facilitated by J.T. Grainger and Steve Guetter, who worked with Johnson County officials to allow seaplane operations.
A key part of establishing seaplane access involved implementing pre- and post-flight inspections and protocols to prevent the transport of aquatic invasive species.
The initiative aims to lead to expanded statewide seaplane access in Wyoming, leveraging techniques for invasive species prevention from Minnesota.

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Pilots can now receive their single-engine seaplane (SES) rating on Lake De Smet in Wyoming, according to Wipaire, the manufacturer of Wiplines airplane floats.

Wipaire, based in St. Paul, Minnesota, has been making floats for aircraft—from Piper Cubs on up—for more than 60 years. Wipline floats may be found on aircraft all over the world, including on Lake De Smet. The 3,600-acre lake, known for its boating and fishing opportunities, is located in the north central part of the state near Buffalo, Wyoming, and managed by Johnson County.