Design and Development
The AeroSkiff emerged from AeroLites Inc.'s philosophy of creating simple, efficient aircraft designs for the homebuilding market. The company, operating under the motto "Innovators Of Aviation Efficiency," had been producing kit aircraft since at least 1984 when they undertook the amphibian project. The design team focused on creating a straightforward two-seat ultralight that would excel in both water and land operations while maintaining ease of construction for amateur builders.
The aircraft's configuration reflected practical amphibian requirements: a braced high-wing design provided clearance from water spray, while the pusher propeller arrangement protected the engine from water ingress during water operations. The open cockpit design maximized visibility—a critical feature for amphibian pilots who must assess water conditions before landing. Retractable landing gear allowed seamless transitions between water and land operations, distinguishing it from fixed-gear alternatives.
Technical Specifications
Powering the AeroSkiff was the proven Rotax 582 engine, a 65-horsepower two-stroke twin-cylinder design manufactured by BRP-Rotax GmbH & Co. KG of Austria. This liquid-cooled engine, produced from 1983 to approximately 2010, became a mainstay of ultralight aviation with over 20,000 units manufactured during its production run. The 582's modular design facilitated maintenance, while dual carburetors ensured reliable fuel delivery across varying flight attitudes encountered in amphibian operations.
The AeroSkiff's dimensions optimized performance within ultralight regulations: a wingspan of 29 feet 9 inches provided 156 square feet of wing area, supporting a gross weight of 1,067 pounds. With an empty weight of 564 pounds, the aircraft offered a useful load of 503 pounds for crew, passenger, and fuel. Maximum speed reached 95 miles per hour, while the stall speed of 38 miles per hour ensured manageable approach speeds for water landings.
Production and Service
AeroLites Inc., headquartered in Welsh, Louisiana under President Daniel J. Rochè's leadership, began AeroSkiff production following the successful 1995 first flight. By 1998, the company reported two AeroSkiffs flying, representing part of their total fleet of 17 aircraft across three models—11 Bearcats, 4 AeroMaster AG variants, and the 2 AeroSkiffs. This production reflected the specialized nature of amphibian homebuilts, which attracted fewer builders than conventional land-plane designs.
The aircraft entered service exclusively in the civilian recreational market, with no commercial or military applications recorded. Private owners operated their AeroSkiffs for personal recreation, taking advantage of the aircraft's ability to access both airports and waterways. The open cockpit design, while limiting all-weather capability, provided spectacular visibility that enhanced the recreational flying experience.
Manufacturing Legacy
AeroLites Inc. continued AeroSkiff production as both a kit aircraft and completed aircraft option, maintaining the design in their product line beyond the initial 1990s introduction. The company's longevity—operating continuously since the 1980s without mergers or acquisitions—provided stability for builders seeking technical support and spare parts availability.
The AeroSkiff received ICAO aircraft type designation SKIF, classifying it as a single-engine piston amphibian with retractable landing gear. This official recognition facilitated international operations and standardized identification procedures for air traffic control purposes.
Operational Characteristics
Amphib pilots appreciated the AeroSkiff's straightforward handling characteristics and robust construction. The high-wing configuration provided inherent stability, while the pusher propeller eliminated propwash effects over the wing and cockpit. Retractable gear operation simplified transitions between water and land operations, though pilots required training in proper gear positioning for each environment.
The aircraft's performance envelope suited recreational flying profiles: the 95-mile-per-hour maximum speed enabled reasonable cross-country capability, while the 38-mile-per-hour stall speed allowed comfortable approach speeds for both runway and water operations. Storage pouches incorporated into the design provided space for personal items during recreational flights.
Current Status
Production records beyond the initial 1998 figures remain undocumented, limiting assessment of total AeroSkiff population. The aircraft continues as part of AeroLites Inc.'s product offerings, though current production levels and flying examples are not publicly reported. The design represents a niche achievement in making amphibian flying accessible to homebuilders, contributing to the diversity of recreational aviation options available in the ultralight and light sport aircraft categories.