Harley Seaplane Floats (SPF)
Patented inverted V-hull composite floats: 30–40% shorter takeoff, zero corrosion.
Executive Summary
Harley Seaplane Floats (HSF) a patented composite float system within the NC-9 Group portfolio, delivering Kevlar/honeycomb/epoxy, vacuum molded pontoon floats that outperform conventional aluminum in takeoff distance, cruise, speed, durability, and corrosion resistance for seaplane, and amphibious operations.
The Problem
Conventional aluminum seaplane floats are fundamentally unchanged for decades. V-bottom hulls, create suction drag, propeller spray, and require high takeoff speeds. Riveted aluminum corrodes in salt water, leak at seams, and demands constant maintenance. Heavy float weight penalizes operators with 10-15 mph cruise deficits and reduces useful load. Seasonal float-to-ski changeovers add downtime and expense.
The Solution
HSF’s Patented inverted V-hull cuts takeoff distance 30-40%, eliminate propeller spray, and prevents dig-in. Kevlar/honeycomb/epoxy vacuum-molded construction passes FAA load testing at 215% while weighing 10 lbs. less per float than aluminum. Zero rivets eliminate leaks and corrosion. Hydraulic rudders turn twice as sharp as conventional systems. Oleo-strut gear delivers the lowest landing load in the industry and enables snow operations without ski over changeover.
Strategic Advantages
Patented inverted V-hulls – no competitor offers this geometry. Composite construction eliminates corrosion-driven aluminum replacement cycles, creating a durable aftermarket moat. 12-13 mph cruise gain means greater range and lower operating cost. Dual-use float/snow capability extends operational seasons. No factory floatplane kit required, enabling conversion of non-kit aircraft and expanding the addressable fleet.
Market Opportunity
The global seaplane market is $1.8B in (2025), projected at $2.6B by 2032 (4.9% CRGR); amphibious segment growing 11.2% CAGR to $517M by 2030. Floats aftermarket dominated by aluminum incumbents with composite penetration nascent. Demand in remote, cargo, tourism, patrol, and training drives fleet expansion.
Execution Readiness
Multiple units sold and in-use: 30- 40% takeoff reduction, 12-13 mph cruise gains. FAA load testing passed at 215%. Kevlar/honeycomb/epoxy vacuum-molded process established. Hydraulic Rutters complete. Patented on inverted V-hull. FAA. CTA certification. Scale-up requires composite facility build out.
Market Focus / Deployment
Target small service and pleasure aircraft owners.
Key Facts
- ▸Patented inverted V-hull geometry (no competitor equivalent)
- ▸Multiple units sold and in-use with validated performance gains
- ▸FAA load testing validated
- ▸Shared manufacturing with H-SES composite facility
Market Opportunity
$1.8B seaplane market (2025); $2.6B by 2032 (4.9–11.2% CAGR)
Financial Detail — NC-9 Data Room
Detailed financial projections, valuation, and capital requirements for SPF are available to qualified investors in the NC-9 Data Room.
Investor InquiryCross-Venture Synergies
- Shared composite manufacturing with H-SES