TYPE: Six-seat amphibian/kitbuilt.
PROGRAMME: Production prototype Seawind first flew 23 August 1982. Progressed through several versions, last of which built by Seawind International Inc of Canada.
Compared to Seawind, the completely new design SeaStar offers a changed aerofoil, single-piece Fowler flaps, gull-wing cabin doors and stainless steel landing gear. Adapted for optional pressurisation and alternative diesel and turboprop engines. Prototype (N601SS) exhibited, partly complete, at Sun 'n' Fun, April 2000; first flown 12 November 2000; by April 2002, 111 hours had been flown and certification programme begun. Certification expected 2005-06.
CURRENT VERSIONS: SeaStar 200 (initially marketed as SeaStar 7T): piston-engined version, as described.
SeaStar 300 (initially marketed as SeaStar 7P): Intended pressurised version, envisaged also for law enforcement duties. Will have two pop-in doors and flight controls for pilot only. Prototype due for construction 'in near future'.
SeaStar 400: Proposed paramilitary version with four underwing hardpoints.
SeaStar 600: Proposed medevac version, capable of taking one stretcher plus attendant.
CUSTOMERS: Several kits under construction by end 2001; company assisting with completion of first ten; over 30 deposits taken by April 2002.
COSTS: Basic kit, less engine and avionics, piston engined US$109,900, turbine engined US$119,900 pressurised US$129,900; estimated cost by completion US$250,000 to US$270,000. Factory-built, M601 turboprop-powered law enforcement version, but without avionics, US$590,000 (2003).
DESIGN FEATURES: Unconventional configuration; shoulder wing with stabilising floats at tips; long-chord fin mounts engine and tailplane at mid-position, shielding propeller from water spray.
FLYING CONTROLS: Conventional and manual. Full-span elevator with two flight-adjustable tabs; ground-adjustable tab on rudder; flight-adjustable tab in port aileron. Electrically operated two-section slotted flaps, max deflection 40°.
STRUCTURE: Carbon fibre throughout; stainless steel landing gear. Wing aerofoil GA37A315.
POWER PLANT: Piston version: One 261 kW (350 hp) Textron Lycoming TIO-540-J2B flat-six driving a four-blade, reversible pitch MT propeller or three-blade Avia propeller, with standard fuel capacity of 379 litres (100 US gallons; 83.3 Imp gallons). Auxiliary fuel tank optional, capacity 151 litres (40.0 US gallons; 33.3 Imp gallons).
Turbine version: One 490 kW (657 shp) derated Walter M601D turboprop driving a three-blade, reversible pitch Avia propeller. Standard fuel capacity 530 litres (140 US gallons; 117 Imp gallons); auxiliary fuel tank capacity 227 litres (60.0 US gallons; 50.0 Imp gallons).
LANDING GEAR: Tricycle type; electrically retractable; spring steel legs. Mainwheel are 7.00-6, have hydraulic brakes and retract upwards into wing; steerable 6.00-6 nosewheel retracts forwards.
ACCOMMODATION: Two front seats and bench for three passengers in rear. Four centreline-hinged, upward-opening doors in piston-engined version.
ARMAMENT: Military version has provision for total of four underwing pylons.