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The hovercraft shown on this stamp is known as the AP.1-88 class.
It is built by the British Hovercraft Corporation Ltd. part of Westland Aerospace, at their East Cowes factory on the Isle of Wight, U.K.
The basic AP.1-88 hull design can be used in a variety of configurations, such as fast passenger ferry, freight carrier, rescue or anti-pollution craft.
It also has a military role as a fast patrol craft, amphibious assault craft, mine warfare or anti submarine warfare craft.
It has an overall length of 80.4 ft. beam 36.1ft. and a height when hovering of 31.2 ft .
Powered by air cooled marine diesels. Maximum speed in calm waters 50 knots, at constant speed the fuel consumption is 84 gallons per hour.
As used as a civil passenger ferry she has accommodation for 101 passengers, as a troop carrier up to 90 fully-kitted troops.
The first of this type was built in 1983 under the name TENACITY who seated 80 passengers.

Malagasy 1994 300fr. sg? , scott1252.

Source: Peter Crichton. Jane’s High Speed Marine Craft and air cushion vehicles

The fully amphibious AP.1-88 model is designed as a fast passenger ferry but can be employed in a variety of roles such as offshore logistics, seismic survey, anti-pollution measures, search and rescue missions and police and customs roles.

With low noise levels and aircraft-type seats, the AP.1-88 model will transport up to 80 passengers in comfort. At cruise speeds to 40 mph while generating low operating costs.
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