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FLATBED is a unique aircraft configurational concept featuring versatility of payloads which are carried on an open cargo floor; there is no fuselage per se. Flatbed can haul containers, passengers in a removable module, or outsize cargoes and vehicles. Large commercial or army vehicles are literally carried “in the open.” Studies have shown the technical and economic feasibility of the Flatbed concept and show reduced terminal turnaround time. Further analysis indicates: (1) significant improvement in “Quick Change” operations, (2) solution to problems involving convertibility to military operations, and (3) potential new markets for cargo airlines as well as reduced distribution costs for shippers.

Modern technology has been applied to derivation of a viable open-ocean seaplane design capable of operation from, and sea sitting in, sea state 5. Beginning with a delineation of traditional seaplane limitations and philosophically unencumbered by orthodoxy, the design features a blended catamaran-fuselage hull, hydrofoil, high wing, twin boom, and Vee tail with top-mounted engines. Weighing 1.25 million pounds including weapons and avionics suite, the design has been applied to a Sea Control mission. Consideration has been given to concepts for inhibition of motion sickness.

The short-haul transportation problem, worldwide, is characterized by congestion both on the ground and in the air. Solutions in the form of ground transportation are expensive in terms of land utilization, high development costs, their adverse effect on the environment and ecology, and are 20-30 years in the future. STOL offers a solution, but the high cost of land for downtown STOLports has precluded implementation. The STOL amphibian provides a solution which uses existing waterways situated downtown in every major city. It will relieve ground congestion and alleviate saturated airports. Studies show that such a system meets the ten basic requirements established by the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 and that it contributes significantly to a reduction in the energy consumed in travel to and from the airports. In terms of facilities, land requirements for the terminal are just 16% of a conventional STOLport.