History

The Flying Inflatable Boat (FIB) is one of the most unique and versatile seaplanes ever created. A hybrid between an ultralight aircraft and a rigid inflatable boat, the FIB has carved a niche for itself in both professional and recreational aviation, proving its value in a wide range of operations.
Originally designed to combine the benefits of a lightweight aircraft with the stability and buoyancy of an inflatable boat, the FIB quickly gained traction among various industries. Coastguards, military forces, firemen, and rescue teams worldwide have employed this remarkable machine for surveillance, search and rescue, and rapid response missions. With the ability to take off and land on water with remarkable ease, it provides a critical advantage in emergency scenarios where access is limited or conventional aircraft cannot operate.
Beyond its professional applications, the FIB has also captured the imagination of adventure seekers, tour operators, and private individuals. Its unparalleled ability to transition seamlessly from air to water has made it a favorite among yacht owners looking for an efficient tender, as well as tour companies offering breathtaking aerial and waterborne experiences. Whether flying over crystal-clear lagoons or landing smoothly on remote lakes, the FIB delivers a thrilling and safe experience for pilots and passengers alike.
With more than a thousand units sold, the FIB holds a unique distinction as possibly the most sold seaplane in the world. Its popularity is a testament to its reliability, ingenuity, and versatility. The combination of simple controls, rugged construction, and adaptability has ensured its place in aviation history as an icon of innovation.
 Today, the legacy of the Flying Inflatable Boat continues to inspire. Whether soaring through the skies on a daring expedition, assisting in life-saving missions, or simply offering an unmatched experience of freedom on the water, the FIB remains a symbol of practical ingenuity and boundless adventure.

Doi Malingri: A Visionary of the Skies and Seas

The world of aviation and maritime exploration has seen many pioneers, but few as daring and inventive as Doi Malingri. A dreamer, sailor, and aviator, Malingri was the brilliant mind behind the Flying Inflatable Boat (FIB), a groundbreaking innovation that blurred the lines between air and water, offering adventurers a new way to experience the world.

In 1973, Doi Malingri participated in the inaugural Whitbread Round the World Race aboard the 50-foot CS & RB II Busnelli, marking a significant milestone in Italian sailing history. 

 

With his creation of the FIB, he brought to life the ultimate spirit of freedom—allowing pilots to soar above the waves and then gently land upon them, seamlessly merging the elements of sky and sea. His ingenuity redefined the possibilities of lightweight aviation, making remote and wild places more accessible while embodying the pure thrill of exploration.

Beyond his technical achievements, Doi Malingri was a man of passion and adventure. His legacy lives on not just in the aircraft he designed, but in the hearts of those who continue to chase the horizon, embracing the spirit of flight and discovery that he so deeply cherished.