WaterWings Aviation

WaterWings Aviation operates from Shelby County Airport (KEET) near Calera, Alabama. The company provides a wide range of flight training programs focused on seaplane, helicopter, tailwheel, multi-engine, and aerobatic ratings. Its primary emphasis is seaplane flying, offering single and multi-engine seaplane ratings in both floatplanes and flying boats. The training is designed to be safe, respectful, and unhurried with a focus on fun and adventure.

The company serves pilots of various skill levels, from beginners seeking new ratings to experienced aviators aiming to expand their flying privileges. Training programs include private, commercial, instrument, CFI, CFII, and ATP helicopter ratings, as well as transition training for specific helicopter models like the Robinson R44 Raven II. WaterWings also offers tailwheel endorsements, unusual attitude and spin training, multi-engine land ratings, and multi-engine sea ratings in a unique amphibious aircraft.

WaterWings operates a diverse fleet of aircraft including two 2000s Aviat Huskies on amphibious floats, 2021/2022 Super Petrel LS Turbo flying boats, three Lockwood AirCams with FAA Letter of Deviation Authority for multi-engine sea training, a 1965 Piper Aztec for multi-engine land training, a 1939 Piper J3 Cub and a 2006 American Champion Super Decathlon for tailwheel and aerobatic training, and a 2006 Robinson R44 Raven II helicopter for full helicopter training. The company emphasizes well-maintained aircraft equipped with modern avionics.

The company’s mission stresses providing an enjoyable, safe learning environment without rushing or yelling at students. It has two hangars at Shelby County Airport and uses additional nearby facilities including Willow Point Airport and Lake Martin. Their instructors are a mix of young and seasoned pilots. WaterWings maintains its own FAA-certified mechanics and employs a full-time Designated Pilot Examiner on site to facilitate checkrides and testing.

WaterWings has been in business for over two decades and was named a Distinguished Flight School in the You Can Fly survey from 2017 through 2019. It offers training across Alabama and the surrounding region, taking advantage of local lakes and water bodies. The company also supports glider soaring through local soaring associations and offers unique experiences such as flying classic airplanes and amphibious aircraft.

Services

• Single Engine Seaplane Ratings
• Multi Engine Seaplane Ratings
• Flying Boat & Light Sport Seaplane Ratings
• Multi Engine Land Ratings
• Helicopter Ratings
• Tailwheel Endorsements
• Unusual Attitude and Spin Training
• Aerobatic Training
• Rotorcraft Transition Training
• Multi-Engine Sea Training in AirCam