Seaplane Base

a complex of installations located on a body of water and an adjoining strip of land with airspace, designed for the takeoff, landing, parking, and servicing of seaplanes.

In Russia the first seaplane bases were constructed during the years 1912-14 at Sevastopol’, Revel (Tallinn), and Libava (Liepaia). Seaplane bases are differentiated by intended purpose—civil, military, and specialized (plant, training, experimental) and by length of operation and types of installations and equipment—permanent (with major installations and stationary equipment) and temporary for short-term stationing of seaplanes (with installations of a temporary or transferable type).

Seaplane bases consist of three principal areas: flight zone, technical services zone, and residential zone. The flight zone is a water area located on a river, lake, or sea that is prepared for the takeoff and landing of seaplanes, as well as their taxiing, storage, and servicing while afloat. Its boundaries are designated by special buoys and beacons which are anchored in place and lit at night; the flight runway is approximately 1 km long and approximately 100 m wide. The air approaches to it are selected so as to be free from obstacles.

The base’s land portion is the site of the technical services zone with its buildings and installations designed for 24-hour operation of the seaplanes. These include buildings for controlling flights and serving passengers, as well as moorings, piers, warehouses for fuel and lubricants, water discharge outlets, and repair shops. The residential zone with buildings for community, cultural, and educational activities is also on land.