Image by Nature-Pix
An aircraft with floats or pontoons attached under the body of the plane which allow it to land and float on water is known as a floatplane. These come under the category of seaplanes but the ones that can land both on water bodies as well as on a runway are known as amphibious aircraft like the Viking Twin Otters.
These planes fly at lower altitudes and at slower speeds. If you are considering taking a leisure trip to a peaceful hilly area or a calm lakeside while savoring the panorama, float planes are the way to fly.
Image by Alain Audet
Floatplanes offer great advantages in certain conditions. Since these can land on water, they are great for flying to remote areas where proper airstrips might not be available. The wings are designed in such a way that they offer much room for clearance allowing the aircraft to pull alongside a dock for easy loading. Available as “single float” and “twin float” models, both have their own qualities.
Floatplanes are available for private charter as well.