Apparatus and associated methodology contemplating an emergency flotation system for floating a flying machine on a body of water. The system includes a water sensor mounted to the flying machine. An inflation device is configured to produce an appropriate amount of pressurized gas in response to the water sensor detecting a presence of water. An inflatable flotation device is in fluid communication with the inflation device, to receive the pressurized gas and thereby become inflated. The flotation device is configured, when inflated, to impart a buoyant force to the flying machine in the water.