Amphibious Airplane Is In The Works Through Collaboration

A composite-construction amphibious airplane capable of carrying 5-6 passengers is in the works through a collaboration between Virginia-based Privateer Enterprises and Comp Air Aviation in Titusville, FL.

Comp Air Aviation claims a history of building high performance composite aircraft, and over the past 15-years have been building carbon composite kit aircraft with an eye toward FAA Certification. So, when John Meekins, owner of Privateer Industries, set out to find a company to finish his dream project of building "the first new amphibian design in over 60 years" he said he "recognized the experience of Comp Air Aviation...and a team was formed."

The innovative design of The Privateer was developed to be the safest design possible for water and land operations, according to Meekins. The aircraft is built of carbon fiber composites, making a light and strong airframe that is protected against the corrosion often associated with water-borne aircraft. This light structure, combined with the 724 HP Walter 601 series turbine engine, will deliver performance not seen by previous amphibians, he says.

Meekins, who describes himself as an industrial real estate developer, pilot, entrepreneur and inventor, said in a news release he wanted to purchase a seaplane that he could safely use to carry his family and friends to and from his waterfront property. After test flying several seaplanes, he said he felt they each had their own safety or performance issues. A short time later, Meekins said he decided to design a modern amphibian that could carry 5-6 passengers, incorporate modern design ideas and be safe for his family. He started sketching and came up with a design that he felt would be the answer. He sent the drawings to Embry Riddle Aeronautical University and had them evaluate his design. They returned a positive report on his amphibian. That led to the partnership with Comp Air, which now will develop a proof of concept prototype of the airplane.

(Image provided by Privateer Industries)

FMI: www.compairaviation.com, www.privateerindustries.com