A seaplane could exploit water access and minimal shore infrastructure, making it useful around remote islands and sparsely supported coasts. It could move supplies, support small outposts, and reach people in the water without requiring a full runway. Converted airliners usually offered better range and lower operating costs for routine patrol, and could drop survival equipment while another platform performed the rescue. On an island, fuel storage and a pipeline to a waterside refuelling point could support a flying boat that never came ashore. Such an arrangement could provide a presence that was easier to deny. Flying boats retained advantages in direct recovery and island logistics, although their maintenance still required funding and commitment.
Notable Point · 46:29-51:37
Why flying boats remained useful
Flying boats stayed relevant for reconnaissance, rescue, and lightly supported operations even as land-based patrol aircraft became more efficient.