Momentum Aeronautics is nearing the completion of Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) approval for the Model 11600 Amphibious Scooping Floats, designed for the Air Tractor 802A firefighting aircraft. The STC approval is expected in early 2025, marking a significant advancement for aerial firefighting operations.
The floats are built to endure the harsh conditions of firefighting. Crafted from advanced composite materials, they ensure reliable water intake, smooth handling, and improved pilot safety margins—making initial attack operations more effective. The floats also offer enhanced durability, reduced drag, and a forgiving platform for both new and experienced pilots.
Momentum Aeronautics has recently achieved several key milestones as it progresses toward final certification.
In March 2024, the company successfully completed structural testing of the floats, confirming the strength and reliability of critical components such as the composite hulls, landing gear assemblies, and fuselage integration. Completion of flight testing followed in July, covering all areas of flight that could be affected by the installation, including water handling, ground characteristics, and operations at the extremes of weight and balance. These tests demonstrated improved water handling characteristics and increased pilot safety compared to other platforms. Ground handling is also enhanced with a new hydraulic strut landing gear system.
In October, Momentum Aeronautics installed the first production set of carbon fiber composite hulls. These floats will be used to complete the final FAA checks and are set to be delivered to the first customer as a rapid initial attack platform serving multiple states and the U.S. Forest Service. The platform will also be used in other countries worldwide.
With STC approval expected in early 2025, the Model 11600 Scooping Floats will soon be available to enhance the capabilities of firefighting operators, offering a dependable and safe firefighting solution for the AT802.
"We are proud to be on the verge of delivering a product that will significantly enhance the safety and efficiency of aerial firefighting operations. The successful completion of both structural and flight testing demonstrates our commitment to providing reliable and innovative solutions to meet the challenges faced by firefighting pilots." - Dan Garrett, President and Founder
About Momentum Aero
Momentum Aeronautics is a leader in the design, certification, and development of high-performance aircraft components, specializing in solutions that enhance the capabilities of mission-critical aircraft like the Air Tractor 802A. With a focus on innovation and pilot safety, Momentum Aeronautics delivers cutting-edge technology designed to support aerial firefighting and other essential operations. With over 15 years of experience in designing aircraft components and a passion for protecting lives, Momentum Aeronautics continues to lead innovation in aeronautical engineering.
