Years ago, on Big Marine Lake, if a float plane landed, it was considered a novelty. In the last 7 or 8 years, they have landed with increasing frequency. In the last 2 years, they have at times become an annoyance. I have seen as many as 4 planes working the lake at the same time.

But the problem I've had with them while sailing, has me, well, -very concerned. In the last year-and-a half, I've had 3 uncomfortable close calls. The latest on Sept 13th. Unfortunately, this plane had the 'small' registration numbers on the tail. I gave him the finger salute as he went by. (The FAA said unfortunately planes over 30 years old are exempt from having standard sized numbers.) I won't go into the ugly details. I'm more interested in finding out if float planes are a common problem to sailors, or if the problems here are rare in other places.

It seems to me there is a built in conflict between sailboats and float planes. Planes have to land and take off into the wind. Sailboats like to cross the wind for fastest speed. When you are sitting on the windward side of the boat, the sail blocks your vision. Its difficult enough constantly looking under your sail for power boats and jet skis. BUT MUST I CONSTANTLY LOOK UP FOR AIRPLANES, TOO???

Let me know what your experiences have been.

Maybe there are some float plane associations we can educate about sailboats?

Thanks