The state’s aviation office is considering whether to allow qualified seaplanes to use state lakes that are managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

A petition is being circulated to gauge interest in opening some of the state’s lakes to seaplanes. The petition is the first step in a lengthy process.

The state transportation’s aviation director, Jesse Romo, says the decision will depend on whether the corps finds enough interest in the idea. He says several pilots have expressed early interest.

The seaplanes land in open spaces on the lake, then operate as a boat on the water.

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Associated Press information from: The Wichita Eagle