A Living Memory of Seaplane Aviation
Every two years, the charming town of Biscarrosse transforms into a breathtaking aerial theater . The International Seaplane Gathering showcases not just flying machines but revives a significant chapter of aviation history — that of airplanes designed to take off and land on water.
This unique event in Europe carries the legacy of the Latécoère workshops , established in Biscarrosse in the early 20th century. It is here that the legendary Laté 28, 521, and 631 were tested. These postal and passenger seaplanes crossed the Atlantic without GPS or radar, relying solely on their pilots’ skills for navigation.
Thus, this site of air conquest opens its doors to thousands of curious visitors , enthusiasts, and aspiring young scientists seeking inspiration.
Exceptional Aircraft Over the Lake
Throughout the weekend, spectators can observe a diverse fleet of aircraft from up close. Some, like the DC3 Dakota and the Spitfire , date back to World War II, while others, such as the Rafale from the French Air Force and the renowned OV-10 Bronco , represent modern aviation.
However, the true stars of the show remain the seaplanes . The iconic Catalina , an amphibious maritime patrol aircraft, performs several stunning flight demonstrations. The Canadian Beaver , recognizable for its stocky appearance and short takeoff capability, captivates the younger audience.
Each flight is accompanied by technical commentary that explains the aerodynamic and historical features of the aircraft. Visitors learn about the unique wing placements, how floats stabilize the aircraft, and the purpose of a four-blade propeller.
List of Planes Present at the International Seaplane Gathering in Biscarrosse · RIHB 2025
– A British PBY Catalina
– A Swedish Beaver
– A Bronco
– A Spitfire
– A Breguet XIV
– A Tracker T15
– A DC3 Dakota
– The Only Junkers Ju52
– A Yak 3
– Air show by the Air Force aerobatic team
– Rafale from the Air Force
Conferences to Understand Aviation from a Different Angle
The event goes beyond mere airplane observation. It features a dense program of conferences , designed to enlighten the public about the technical, environmental, and heritage-related issues surrounding seaplane aviation.
Topics include the restoration of a Latécoère 28 , an industrial archaeology project engaging engineers, historians, and artisans. Discussions also highlight the prospects of decarbonized aviation , featuring an anticipated talk by Bertrand Piccard , a pioneer in solar flight.
Another captivating conference focuses on the Flying Whales project led from Nouvelle-Aquitaine. This initiative aims to develop a cargo airship capable of transporting tons to remote areas while significantly reducing CO₂ emissions.
These conferences cater to all audiences, including high school students, offering rigorous yet accessible scientific explanations without excessive simplification.
Program for the International Seaplane Gathering in Biscarrosse · RIHB 2025
Saturday, May 31
- 10:00 – Site Opens
- 10:30 – 11:30: Historical Conference: The Emergence of Floatplanes by Frédéric Gravier
- 11:00 – 18:30: Children’s Artistic Workshop
- 11:30 – 12:30: Heritage Conference: Reconstruction of a Latécoère 28-3 by Alain Gaboriaud
- 12:00: Stilt Walker Parade by Les Hérons du Lac Association
- 11:45 – 12:30 / 12:45-13:30: Concert by La Banda 7
- 13:30 – 18:45: Aerial Show
- 18:45 – 19:00: Pilots’ Autograph Session
- 19:00 – 21:00: Concert by We Funk
- 21:30: Sunset Show
- 22:00: Drone Show
- 22:15: Fireworks
- Site Closes
Sunday, June 1
- 10:00 – Site Opens
- 10:30 – 11:30: Environmental Conference: Bertrand Piccard, Decarbonized Aviation
- 11:00 – 18:30: Children’s Artistic Workshop
- 11:00 – 11:30: Walking Concert: La Banda Bisca
- 11:30 – 12:30: Economic Conference: An Innovative Regional Project, Flying Whales
- 12:00: Stilt Walker Parade by Lous Esquirous Association
- 11:45 – 12:30 / 12:45-13:30: Concert: Crazy Dolls and the Bollocks
- 13:30 – 18:45: Aerial Show
- Site Closes
An Immersive and Educational Experience
For those who prefer hands-on experiences over passive listening, the venue offers a wide range of activities: Rafale or Mirage III flight simulators , artistic workshops, inflatable structures, and interactive stands.
Aeronautical associations showcase models, cockpit instruments, and navigation principles once used by Aéropostale pilots.
A special “First Day” stamp is issued for this occasion, honoring the pioneers of air mail and is symbolically delivered by a Breguet XIV , one of the aircraft used on the Toulouse-Dakar route.
Logistics Designed for Accessibility
The site is accessible for all, including those with reduced mobility, cyclists, and families. Free shuttles connect the activity zones to the town center of Biscarrosse.
Traffic is managed with several dedicated parking areas. On-site, food trucks, dining stands, and shaded spaces allow for an uninterrupted day of exploration.
The Hydraviation Museum remains open throughout the event, featuring an immersive exhibition titled “Poste Restante,” designed as a journey through the stops of Aéropostale.
A Unique Open-Air Experience
As the day winds down, activities continue with a sunset aerial show, followed by a dazzling drone display and a fireworks finale to wrap up Saturday’s festivities. The entire event is free of charge, serving as a true laboratory for discovery for science students , exploring applied aerodynamics, eco-design, and historical engineering.
In Biscarrosse, airplanes represent not just machines but fragments of history, encapsulations of physics, and mechanics in motion within the sky.