Cessna Grand Caravan Amphibians Connect South Florida, the Bahamas and Dubai

The Cessna Grand Caravan amphibian can take off and land on conventional runways or water, giving operators a way to connect waterfront locations with established airports. Tropic Ocean Airways serves destinations in the Bahamas, while Seawings operates water-based passenger services and sightseeing flights in the United Arab Emirates.

Key details

• The aircraft’s retractable landing gear integrates with its floats for land and water operations.
• The Grand Caravan cruises at about 160 knots, or 184 mph.
• Tropic Ocean Airways flies between South Florida and Bahamian destinations including the Abacos, Harbour Island and Bimini.
• Seawings operates Caravan amphibians from Dubai Creek and has connected Al Zora Marina in Ajman with Dubai Creek by scheduled water service.
• Seawings sightseeing flights from Dubai Creek last about 45 minutes and include views of landmarks such as Palm Jumeirah and Burj Khalifa.

The Grand Caravan can carry up to nine passengers.

Why it matters

For passengers travelling among islands or waterfront communities, an amphibian can use water-access locations as well as runways. The reported routes show how operators use the Caravan to link South Florida with the Bahamas and connect destinations around the UAE.