New Zealand LSA manufacturer Vicker Aircraft expects their Wave LSA to make its first water take-off in April.
The prototype amphibian first flew in March last year from the runway at Hamilton, and since the company has been conducting extensive trials to refine the characteristics on water.
Vickers Aircraft CEO Paul Vickers said they hoped to make the first flight off water in the middle of next month.
"As we learned more about how the aircraft and 'boat' work together, we made small changes that enable the hull to be the most efficient as it interacts with the aerodynamic effects of the wings and fuselage; a fine balance here as the aircraft is only a boat for a few seconds each water flight," Vickers said.
"Sponsons add incredible stability at rest and during slow maneuvering while allowing docking options that tip floats don't accommodate. Finding the balance between stability, high-speed taxi, and flight takes time and testing, resulting in the most streamlined sponson that offers adequate buoyancy and stability.
"This has now been achieved.The team continues to be impressed with the Wave's on-water performance as we look forward to first water flight and landing in mid-April."
The Rotax 915 iS promises a 15,000-foot ceiling, 1400 fpm rate-of-climb, 120 KTAS max speed and an eight-hour endurance from the 189 litre tanks.
Although it has a maximum take-off weight of 839 kg, it will be certified as a light sport aircraft under an FAA exemption.
Vickers Aircraft has been developing the Wave for nearly 12 years.