Bootleggers Seaplane Airport (CT87) — Enfield's Connecticut River Water Landing Facility
Bootleggers Seaplane Airport, designated CT87 by the FAA, is a seaplane landing area located in Enfield, Connecticut, on the Connecticut River. One of a small number of registered seaplane bases in New England, CT87 offers water takeoff and landing operations for float-equipped aircraft in the broad, relatively calm stretch of the Connecticut River north of Hartford. Seaplane operations in Connecticut carry a certain historical romance — the Connecticut River has hosted watercraft of all kinds for centuries, and seaplane bases like Bootleggers represent a tradition of water aviation dating to the early 20th century. The facility falls under FAA New England Region oversight and Connecticut Airport Authority registration.
The name Bootleggers evokes Prohibition-era Connecticut, when the Connecticut River corridor saw considerable illicit activity — and likely some low-profile aircraft operations. Today, CT87 serves float-plane enthusiasts who appreciate the unique experience of water operations on one of New England's most historic rivers. Pilots operating at this seaplane base must comply with Connecticut DEEP water use regulations in addition to FAA requirements, as the Connecticut River is a regulated waterway. Float-plane pilots will find calm water conditions most reliable during early morning hours before recreational boat traffic increases on summer weekends.
What is CT87 Bootleggers Seaplane Airport?
CT87 is an FAA-registered seaplane landing area on the Connecticut River in Enfield, Connecticut. It is designed for float-equipped aircraft and offers water takeoff and landing operations on a regulated stretch of the river.
What type of aircraft can operate at CT87?
Float planes and amphibious aircraft are the primary users of Bootleggers Seaplane Airport. Common types include Cessna 172 floatplanes, de Havilland Beavers, and Piper Super Cubs on floats.
Are there additional regulations for seaplane operations in Connecticut?
Yes. Seaplane operations on the Connecticut River require compliance with FAA regulations as well as Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) waterway rules and US Army Corps of Engineers navigation regulations.
Is Bootleggers Seaplane Airport open to visiting pilots?
Prior permission is required for operations at CT87. Visiting float plane pilots should contact the facility in advance to confirm current water conditions, any NOTAMs, and permission requirements.
Bootleggers Seaplane Airport - Ct87 Contact Information
Address, Phone Number, and Hours for an Airports in Enfield, Connecticut.
| Name | Bootleggers Seaplane Airport - Ct87 |
| Address | 2 South River Street, Enfield CT 06082 Map |
| Phone | (203) 745-2088 |
| Website | |
| Hours |
Map of Bootleggers Seaplane Airport - Ct87
Airports near Enfield
Planning Seaplane Operations at CT87 in Enfield, Connecticut
Enfield, Connecticut lies along the Connecticut River north of Hartford near the Massachusetts state line. The stretch of river near Bootleggers Seaplane Airport (CT87) offers scenic flying over a mix of woodlands, agricultural land, and historic Connecticut River valley communities. Float plane pilots should verify river water levels and current before operating, as Connecticut River conditions can vary significantly with seasonal rainfall and snowmelt. The nearest land-based general aviation services are at Bradley International Airport (BDL) or Hartford-Brainard Airport, both within 15 miles.
Water aviation enthusiasts visiting the area will find the Connecticut River valley a rewarding region for scenic float-plane flying, with views extending to the Berkshire foothills and historic valley towns. The FAA New England Region Seaplane Pilots Association chapter is a resource for pilots interested in building water takeoff and landing proficiency in New England's lakes and rivers. All seaplane operations must be coordinated within the airspace context of Hartford TRACON, which manages traffic in the area that includes Bradley International's approach and departure paths to the immediate south.