Rules of the Sea Flashcards
FARs that reference Right-Of-Way Rules for Water Operations
Part 91, Section 115
In addition to FARs, these rules also apply to seaplane operations: Pilots should be familiar with:
Rules of the Sea Seaplane bases, maritime rules and aids to marine navigation
General Right-Of-Way Rules:
Each person operating an aircraft on the water shell, insofar as possible, keep clear of all of vessels and avoid impeding their navigation, and shall give away to any of vessel or other aircraft that is given the right-of-way by any role in this section.
Crossing Right-Of-Way Rules:
When an aircraft, or an aircraft and a vessel, are on crossing courses, the aircraft or vessel to the other’s right has the right-of-way.
Approaching head-on:
When an aircraft, or an aircraft and a vessel, are approaching head-on, or nearly so, each shall alter its course to the right and keep well clear.
Overtaking Right-Of-Way Rules:
Each Aircraft or vessel that is being overtaken has the right-of/way. The one over taking shell altar course to keep well clear.
Right-Of-Way Rules - Special circumstances:
When an aircraft, or an aircraft and a vessel, approach so as to involve the risk of collision, then each aircraft or a vessel shall proceed with careful regard to the existing circumstances, including the limitations of the respective craft. If contact with a vessel is a possibility, shut off engine.
Does a departing or landing seaplane have the right of way?
A departing seaplane requires the right-of-way due to less maneuverability and the fact that the pilot has less visibility.
Who has the right-of-way… a boat or a seaplane?
Boaters are typically not familiar with operations of seaplanes, and therefore the plane pilots should give away and remain well clear.
Aids to Navigation
There are several types of buoys/ markers that come in various sizes and shapes and maybe marked with numbers and letters.
Port Side Aids
Green odd numbered buoys/markers are positioned on the port (left) side of the channel “Returning from Seaward”
Starboard Side Aids
Red, even numbered buoys/markers are positioned on the Starboard (right) side of the channel “Returning from Seaward”
What are the 3 R’s when approaching from seaward?
Red, Right and Returning
What should be referenced to gather general waterway regulations and information on populated landing areas?
The SPA Water Landing Directory
Rotating beacon for water landing areas
White and yellow
