Santa Catalina Island's Flying Boat History: Guest David Johnston

Santa Catalina Island's Flying Boat History: Guest David Johnston

Author: Seaplane Pilots Foundation March 1, 2023 Duration: 1:03:27

David L. Johnston joins Steve McCaughey in this WaterFlying podcast to discuss his experiences as a dock boy for Avalon Air Transport (Catalina Air Lines), which at the time operated a fleet of Grumman Gooses as well as the incredible Sikorsky VS-44 four-engine flying boat.

In addition to working the seaplane dock between 1962 and 1968, David has become a passionate aviation historian of the long and colorful history of the island off the coast of Southern California.

Only three VS-44s were produced by Sikorsky, and the one that David worked with survives today. You can visit it, the last Sikorsky flying boat design, at the New England Air Museum in Windsor Locks, Connecticut.

To learn more about this magical time in seaplane and flying boat history you can purchase David's book "The Knights of Avalon" by clicking here.


There’s a particular kind of freedom found where the runway ends and the water begins, and that’s exactly where the Water Flying Aviation Podcast lives. Produced by the Seaplane Pilots Foundation, this weekly series is for anyone captivated by the unique world of amphibious aviation. Each episode feels like hanging out in a busy seaplane base, swapping stories and practical knowledge. You’ll hear from certified flight instructors breaking down tricky water operations, engineers from manufacturing companies discussing what’s new in floatplane design, and pilots sharing tales from remote lakes and coastal harbors across the globe. Conversations here are grounded in real-world experience, covering essential safety discussions, maintenance tips, and the latest news that matters to the community. Whether you’re an active pilot, an aviation enthusiast dreaming of your first splash-down, or simply someone fascinated by travel and unique cultures tied to waterways, this podcast offers an authentic and engaging perspective. It’s more than just technical talk; it’s about the people, places, and sheer joy that define water flying. Tune in for a regular dose of insight and adventure, directly from those who live it.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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