AvGeek video: Flying Tailwind's seaplane from Boston Harbor to New York's East River
We're back with another exciting episode of TPG's AvGeek video series, Airplane Mode.
The series takes you behind the scenes of some of the world's most incredible aviation experiences, from posh terminals and fancy cabins to test facilities and hangars — showing you things you've never seen before.
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In this episode, I jumped on board Tailwind's Cessna Caravan seaplane that flies between Boston and New York. The company will also launch flights between New York and Washington, D.C. in the coming weeks. Not only did I experience taking off in the waters of Boston Harbor and landing in New York's East River, but I also had the chance to chat with the pilots. They explained what it's like to operate a plane that spends some of its time on the ground (well more accurately, in the water), officially operating as a boat under marine rules and restrictions.
First look: The new seaplane service between New York and Boston on Tailwind Air
My flight to New York City took about 75 minutes — about half the time it takes to travel via traditional methods such as cars, buses and trains. Even Amtrak's high-speed Acela train can only complete the route between the two cities in about three and a half hours at the very least.
The downside to Tailwind's convenience is its price. Flights start at $395 one-way and can get up to $795. This service is aimed at business travelers and those with a last-minute booking situation, where time is money.
Personally, I wouldn't see myself making frequent use of this service. However, as an AvGeek, the experience is absolutely unmatched. Take a look for yourself:
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