Iconic Alaskan Float Planes

Our aircraft is the airplane considered by many to be the finest “bush” aircraft ever built – the De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver. The Beaver has a first-rate safety record and has been employed by 35 armed forces throughout the world. Our aircraft is the airplane considered by many to be the finest “bush” aircraft ever built – the de Havilland DHC-2 Beaver. The Beaver was designed with input from many of Canada and Alaska’s great bush pilots, resulting in a sturdy and reliable aircraft that can carry up to 1,200 lbs. on floats, and take off and land in surprisingly little room. Ask any pilot you know about the Beaver, and watch their eyes light up as they try to explain about the unique engine noise of the 450 hp Wasp Jr. radial engine. Better yet, watch the envy on their face when you tell them you are going to take a ride in one on your Alaskan adventure! Travel to your destination in a piece of living history in our classic 1964 de Havilland DHC-2 Beaver.

ENGINE

Our DHC-2 De Havilland Beaver on floats features a Wasp Jr. Engine. The Wasp Jr. is one of the most successful reciprocating engines ever built. Pratt & Whitney introduced it as a complement to the highly successful Wasp and Hornet families of engines in 1930. The Wasp Jr. was essentially a Wasp of reduced dimensions. Pratt & Whitney and its licensees manufactured over 39,000 versions of the R-985 until 1953 for a wide variety of military and commercial aircraft, including light transports, trainers, sport aircraft, and helicopters.

Manufacturer: Pratt & Whitney

Date: 1942

Country of Origin: United States of America

Dimensions: 117.5 x 117.5 x 109.4 cm (46.25 x 46.25 x 43.06 in.)

Materials: Overall – aluminum and steel.

Type: Radial, 9 cylinders, air cooled

Power rating: 336 kW (450 hp) at 2,300 rpm

Displacement: 16.1 L (985 cu in)

Weight: 309 kg (682 lbs.)

Manufacturer: Pratt & Whitney Aircraft

AIRFRAME

Model: DHC-2

Year built: 1964

Construction Number (C/N): 1549

Aircraft Type: Fixed-wing single engine

Number of Seats: 8

Number of Engines: 1

Engine Type: Reciprocating

Engine Manufacturer: Pratt & Whitney

Engine Model: R-985 Series (Wasp Jr.)

Our new aircraft, the Piper PA-12 Super Cruiser, is a true Alaskan workhorse—versatile, reliable, and built for adventure. First introduced in the late 1940s, the PA-12 is celebrated for its rugged design and outstanding performance on floats. With its powerful 160 HP engine, this high-wing floatplane offers excellent visibility, smooth handling, and impressive short takeoff and landing capabilities—perfect for Alaska’s remote and wild landscapes.

The Beluga Air PA-12 has been meticulously maintained and is equipped for commercial operations including scenic flightseeing, custom charters, and flight instruction. Its dual controls also make it ideal for student pilots looking to learn in a true bush plane environment. Available May through October, this aircraft provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity to experience the skies of Alaska the way few ever do—up close and unforgettable.

ENGINE

Our Piper PA 12 Super Cruiser on floats features a four-cylinder, air-cooled, horizontally opposed engine producing 160 horsepower. This engine enhances the aircraft’s takeoff power, climb rate, and overall handling—especially important for floatplane and backcountry operations. Known for its reliability and ease of maintenance, the O-320 is a popular choice for bush pilots. Combined with the PA-12’s lightweight design and large wing surface, the engine allows for impressive short-field performance and a higher useful load, ideal for Alaskan flying.

Manufacturer: Piper

Date: 1947

Country of Origin: United States of America

Materials: Overall – aluminum and steel.

Type: 0-320

Power rating: 160 HP

Manufacturer: Lycoming

AIRFRAME

Model: PA-12

Year built: 1947

Aircraft Type: Fixed-wing single engine

Number of Seats: 3

Number of Engines: 1

Engine Type: Reciprocating

Dimensions: 37.5’ wingspan x 25’ length