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Seaplane landing license cool [UPDATED]
Published 9:51am Wednesday, August 29, 2012 Updated 11:57am Wednesday, August 29, 2012The news this week that Flekkeford Lake in Elbow Lake became a licensed public seaplane base is just plain cool, and shows how two groups, looking for a win-win solution, can find a compromise.
The application was sent six years ago but denied because the lake is just shy of a mile, the required length needed to land a seaplane.
Prairie Air owner Joe LaRue appealed the decision and the was compromise reached. Any pilot landing for the first time on the lake will be provided a brief explanation explaining the obstacles, and traffic patterns over the radio. The pilot may then land on the lake anytime.
Flekkeford Lake is one of just 14 seaplane bases in the state, and one of only three that offers an airport maintenance facility and seaplane base in one location.
From this action, more business may grow. The owner is presently able to provide fuel on the water, and may expand to become a float dealer.
It all just goes to show what can happen with a little initiative, and a willingness to find some common ground.
