March 2012 - Edition in English

agairupdate.com Volume 30, Number 3 March 2012

IN SID E

World’s first TRTO for

Fire Boss inside this edition: Here we go again• The next generation Air Tanker • Landing a SEAT Updates from New Zealand • SAIB: Landing gear, tire tube AIR-TEC named authorized service center for GE’s M601 and H80 engines Use caution, avoid takeoff and landing accidents • High tech in Ecuador

Spreads More Fertilizer Than a Political Rally.

Productivity and profitability are the name of the game. And nothing gives you both like Thrush—the world’s most powerful ag planes. They’re exceptionally built to carry maximum loads while delivering superior spray patterns. And because each aircraft is constructed with pilots in mind, your flying is easier, your job more successful, and your investment more secure. When you’re in a Thrush, you’re getting the job done.

No matter how big that job may be.

Get the straight story on what’s happening at Thrush Aircraft. Visit us online or call Eric Rojek at 229.789.0437.

Something new is going on here. www.thrushaircraft.com 2A

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AgNAV

March 2012

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calendar of events for a complete list of events, visit agairupdate.com

March 2012 March 5, 2012 Free Ag-Nav Training Seminar Sheraton Harrisburg Hershey Hotel Harrisburg, PA Fred Rameriz — fred@agnav.com March 5-7, 2012 Operation SAFE Oligrow, Delhi, LA Seth Oliver - 318-439-0710 March 14, 2012 GaAAA Operation SAFE Donalsonville, GA Frankie Williams - 229-924-2813 Fax: 229-924-4356 frankie@southerfield.com March 14-16, 2012 TxAAA Operation SAFE Rosenberg, TX Grant Lane 281-342-5451 Dennis Gardisser 501-676-5959 March 21, 2012 InAAA Board Meeting Turbines Inc Terre Haute, IN Brian Townsend 270-305-2749 March 21, 2012 GaAAA Operation SAFE Americus, GA Frankie Williams 229-924-2813 Fax: 229-924-4356 frankie@southerfield.com

March 26-28, 2012 ArAAA Operation SAFE South Region Dumas Municipal Airport Brenda Watts 870-644-3141 David Moss 870-392-7769 Troy Meauz 870-392-7700 Jason Sessions 870-382-0591

April 2012 April 2-6, 2012 ArAAA Operation SAFE Central Region Frost Flying Service Marianna, AR Jack Frost 870-295-6213 April 3, 2012 GaAAA Operation SAFE Syvania, GA Frankie Williams - 229-924-2813 Fax: 229-924-4356 frankie@southerfield.com April 9-13, 2012 ArAAA Operation SAFE North Region Newport Municipal Airport Rodney Shelly 870-328-7677

June 2012 June 6-9, 2012 AeroAplica 2012 Ruta 9 KM. 286, Cañada de Gomez, Santa Fe, Argentina www.ceasfe.com.ar

inside this issue Calendar of events .................................................................................................................................... 4A AgAir mail ...................................................................................................................................................... 6A AFF - Here we go again....................................................................................................................................... 8F AFF- World’s first trto for Fire Boss................................................................................................................10F AFF- The next generation Air Tanker.................................................................................................................12F AFF- Landing a SEAT......................................................................................................................................... 14F Updates from New Zealand.................................................................................................................................17A AIR-TEC named authorized service center for GE’s M601 and H80 engines.....................................................18A SAIB: Landing gear, tire tube...............................................................................................................................20A Use caution, avoid takeoff and landing accidents...............................................................................................22A Composite formulation aids banana applications - Argentine technology expands globally..............................24A Simplex Manufacturing changes name to Simplex Aerospace.............................................................................25A NAAA is heading back to Savannah for its annual convention and exposition!...................................................26A Finding a road.....................................................................................................................................................28A High tech in Ecuador...........................................................................................................................................30A Classified ads..............................................................................................................................................34A

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June 27-29, 2012 SINDAG - Congresso Nacional de Aviação Agrícola Campo Grande - MS, Brazil Cristina Coria 55 51 3066-9355 55 51 9468-5353 cristina@congressosindag.com.br www.congressosindag.com.br

August 2012 August 9-11, 2012 Sindicato Nacional dos Aeronautas (SNA) Seminar for Brazilian National Agricola Aviation Pilots Municipal Airport Cachoeira do Sul, Rio Grande Brazil August 15-17, 2012 Congreso Mercosur and Latinoamericano de Aviación Agrícola Bolsa de Cereales de Rosario Pcia. de Santa Fe Argentina Contact: Sr. Guillermo Forchino-Director Ejecutivo FeArCa email: administracion@fearca.com

October 2012 October 12-14, 2012 NAAA Fall Board Meeting Louisville, KY Peggy Knizner Tel: 202-546-5722 Fax: 202-546-5726 information@agaviation.org

November 2012 November 6-8, 2012 CoAAA Annual Conv. & Trade Show Crowne Plaza Hotel Colorado Springs, CO Dolle M. Lehrkamp 719-768-3367 dolle@coagav.org www.coagav.org

December 2012 December 3-6, 2012 NAAA Annual Convention and Expo Weston Hotel, Savannah International Trade & Convention Center Savannah, GA Tel: 202-546-5722 information@agaviation.org

P.O. Box 850 • Perry, GA 31069 USA 475 Myrtle Field Rd. • Perry, GA 31069 USA PHONE: 478-987-2250 FAX: 478-987-1836 aau@agairupdate.com • agairupdate.com Scan this QR Code with your smart phone.

EDITOR / PUBLISHER: Bill Lavender editor@agairupdate.com ASSISTANT TO THE EDITOR: Deborah Freeman aau@agairupdate.com ACCOUNTING: Sandy Lavender accounting@agairupdate.com ADVERTISING: Ernie Eggler ernie@agairupdate.com CLASSIFIED ADS: classifieds@agairupdate.com PRODUCTION: Deborah Freeman aau@agairupdate.com CIRCULATION: Brittni White subs@agairupdate.com IT SPECIALIST: Graham Lavender graham@agairupdate.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Dennis Avery - cgfi@hughes.net Jim Gardner - jim@agairupdate.com Carlin Lawrence - carlin@agairupdate.com Alan McCracken - mccrackenalan@yahoo.com Robert McCurdy - robert@agairupdate.com Sam Miller - smiller@SLMmodels.com Tracy Thurman - thurmantracyt@yahoo.com LATIN AMERICAN REPS: Ernesto Franzen - ernesto@agairupdate.com Gina Hickmann - gina@agairupdate.com Walt Jazun - walt@agairupdate.com Pat Kornegay - pat@svatx.com Virginia Marroni - mariamarroni@hotmail.com © Copyright 2012 AgAir Update retains all rights for reproduction of any material submitted, to include but not limited to articles, photographs, emails and bulletin board posts. All material remain the copyright of AgAir Update. No part of this publication may be reproduced, in part or whole, without the written consent of the publisher. Editorial published do not necessary reflect the views of the publisher. Content within AgAir Update is believed to be true and accurate and the publisher does not assume responsibility for any errors or omissions. Unsolicited editorial manuscripts and photos are welcomed and encouraged. We cannot be responsible for return unless submissions are accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope. Advertising deadline is 12 noon, on the 1st of the month preceding the month of publication.

AgAir Update (ISSN 1081-6496) Published monthly by AgAir Update, LLC, 475 Myrtle Field Road, Perry, GA 31069 for $39 USD for one year in the U.S.; International rates are $39 USD for one year. Periodical postage paid at Springfield, MO and additional mailing offices.

Postmaster: Send address changes to P.O. Box 850, Perry, GA 31069.

AgAir Update, a multiple-award winning publication, is a tabloid newspaper 12.25” deep by 9.5” wide on a 2.25” 4 column format. Contract rates are available upon request.

AgAir Update is a proud member of:

agair mail weatherly Can you give a phone number for Weatherly Aircraft? Did they file Chapter 7? Trying to contact John Weatherly, the founder.

Thanks, Scott Murphy Dublin, GA Hello Scott; AgAir Update has not had recent contact with both Hal and John Weatherly. Even though John was involved in the early years at Weatherly, to my knowledge, Hal was the controlling factor in the end. John built and sold the adjustable fan system for spray pumps that he sold out to Serv-Aero Engineering in California.

You might start a track by contacting Dennis Perry at Serv-Aero. His contact information is in his ad in AgAir Update.—Bill

Hey, Bill, I forgot about Serv-Aero. All I had to do to get a hold of Dennis was drive two miles to the Salinas airport and found him sitting in a lawn chair outside the main hangar, bundled in a blanket, with a cap and sunglasses, smoking a very large stogie. He was on one of his breaks. He was very helpful finding John and I appreciate your help.

Thanks, Scott Murphy Dublin, GA

market Wondering whether the ag aviation business is a viable option in north Florida and south Georgia. Do you have any idea of what the market is like?

Skip Thomas

Hello Skip; Not sure what you mean, exactly, about “what the market is like” for an agaviation business. Of course, there are numerous well-established ag-aviation companies in north Florida and south Georgia. However, that area is not great for ag-spraying, even though there is a lot of farmland.

If you are interested in getting into the ag-aviation business, then you’d fare better to try to buy one of the established companies. It would be much less money in the long run, compared to trying to start up on your own. I know, I’ve done it. I would have been much better off to have bought a company than start one from scratch.— Bill

calendar Thank you for the beautiful calendar.

I will remember you frequently. God bless you!!

Mauricio Pinzon Bogota, Colombia Hola mi amigo I hope all with you and your familia are bueno. All good here.

The calendar simply represents that

agairupdate.com VOLUME 30, NUMBER 3 MARCH 2012

IN SID E

I will never forget my first trip to South America when I visited you. This week I am in Brazil. So many trips since that first visit in May 1992.—Bill

NAAA article I was delighted to see the article in this month’s AgAir Update regarding the NAAA written by John Thomas from Nebraska. He did a very good job in stating many of the excellent reasons to be a member of the National Agricultural Aviation Association.

While there are many other reasons, he got the point across with an economy of words yet clearly stating the valid points for being a member of NAAA. Also the placement of our ad next to the article was a nice touch and much appreciated. Also thank you for the opportunity to write a column for placement in AgAir Update to impart industry information and NAAA activities and concerns to your readership. Although it has been said many times before it bears repeating again, “United we stand, divided we fall”. So by working together perhaps we can keep this vocation we call agricultural aviation alive for generations to come.

Mark Hartz NAAA President 2012 Almyra, AR Hello Mark; Thanks for the kudo, which go to John Thomas. I appreciate him taking the time to write.—Bill

World’s first TRTO for

Fire Boss inside this edition: Th

Watch for AgAir Update’s monthly cartoon Chocks by Robert Lang! Have a suggestion? Email aau@agairupdate.com.

On the cover...

Avialsa’s first dual cockpit Fire Boss AT-802 during its test flight, overflies its base in Sagunto, Spain.

See story on page 10F.

John and Bill, Thank you for the excellent article on NAAA and NAAREF. It was well written and published.

Your support of NAAA is always appreciated.

Brian Rau Medina, ND Hello Brian; All the thanks go to John Thomas. We are just “the messenger”! —Bill

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effective Wanted to share with you how effective your Online Classifieds are.

I sent classified copy to Brittini early afternoon, she uploaded the ad and I had a call on the ad by 8:00 am the following morning. Better yet I received interest from all over the world and we were able to sell the item with in five days of placing the ad!

Best Advertising Opportunity Ever!

Thanks and keep up the good work.

Ann Hatfield - Grahek Turbine Conversions Nunica, MI Hello Ann Thanks for the Kudos. I know Brittni appreciates. I am glad the classified listing worked so well for you.

Stay warm in the cold North. 75d here today, the end Jan!—Bill

training I’m from South Africa and Lourens Kritzinger said I must email you. At the moment I am at Ag Flight, Inc in Georgia doing my ag course. Can you please help me where I can do my Air Tractor conversion?

Regards Andre le Roux South Africa

Hello Andre; The only place I know of that offers commercial transition into turbine Air Tractors is Eagle Vistas in Florida. They use an AT-504.

I have Cc:’d Randy Berry, the owner, with our email. I am sure he will be in contact with you.

Good luck and give my fondest regards to Lourens!—Bill

advice I am just a small town farm boy from near Fayetteville, Arkansas with a passion for flying. Not a whole lot of ag flying goes on up here, if any in the hills of The Ozarks and Boston Mountains. If you asked around to some of the crop dusters and ag pilots across Arkansas, they might remember me from this fall travelling around trying to find a way to get into crop dusting without already knowing someone who does it.

I met some very friendly farmers and pilots. A few tried to help me best they could, but when it came down to it, they couldn’t really help me much at all. I got all kinds of different advice from going to school, to finding some one to take me under their wing, to getting out before I even started to diving in and buying my own business.

I am currently living near Cabot, Arkansas and working on airplane engines for the U.S.A.F with my commercial pilot license and still with a love for flying. I was wanting to see if you had any advice for me, or what might be one of the best schools in the USA for cropduster training. I appreciate your time.

Sincerely, Dusty Gene Villines Cabot, AR Hello Dusty; Congratulations on wanting to be an ag-pilot. Persistence is the key, don’t give up. Expect to work on the ground with an operator to learn the business and earn his trust. Don’t even consider buying an aircraft and going out on your own, not even after ag-school.

It would be a big mistake that I guarantee will cost you lots of wasted money, if not your life.

There are two schools in the U.S. that I am familiar with, Flying Tigers Aviation in Louisiana and Eagle Vistas in Florida. You can find their contact information in your copy of AgAir Update. Go to ag-school. You won’t be an ag-pilot when you graduate, but you’ll be a whole lot smarter about ag-aviation.—Bill

dream I don’t know if you remember me, I am Andrés Fargioni, Mauricio Fargioni’s son. Last year you came to Pujato, Argentina to write an article for AgAir Update about our company, Fargioni Servicios Aéreos.

The reason I am writing you is to ask for some help with my career as an ag pilot. The thing is that the idea of working in the same place every year doesn’t seem very attractive, even more, living in the same place could turn into a boring lifestyle. The

Mike with his favorite single-engine, the DHC-2 Beaver.

current

wash Here’s some pics of the best plane washing crew ever!

I heard the girls cross country team was doing a car wash to raise money.

I talked them into coming out to the airport to give my Thrush a wash.

Ken Peterson Peterson Aerial Spraying Staples, MN

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Sure makes for a great improvement on the looks of the Thrush! Not just the cleaning, either.

A great idea for good PR. I can imagine an operator passing by a volunteer car wash event and paying the whole team to come out an wash the a/c, assuming there is no “toxic” pesticides on it. You guys in Minnesota must keep cleaner aircraft!—Bill

Greetings Bill. Just a note to wish you and yours all the best for 2012. I thank you for your excellent newspaper which I find most informative. It certainly ensures that I am current on ag. aviation world-wide. What a nice photograph of Graham Lavender and Marley Lane Lavender in the December issue. My congratulations to them. It takes me back to when I was a new father in Papua New Guinea in 1966.

Happy times indeed.

Our ag. ops have improved over the past year and the chaps have been busy again after some not so good years. The prospects look okay for the future with our farming sector in reasonable shape with respect to exports of meat, wool and dairy products. We have had ample rain and

our remote South Pacific islands are as green as I have seen them.

And very best wishes to all you ag aviators all over the planet.

Regards and chocks away, Mike Feeney Dinosaur Ag Pilot New Zealand Hello Mike; HNY to you, as well. Thanks for the kind and polite comments from a “dinosaur”! Actually, we have swapped our ability to remember with responding quickly from experiences.

Glad to hear that New Zealand is faring well, as it surely deserves it. I remember several trips I made to that wonderful green land, particularly the flight in a Cresco.

I’ll pass on your comments to Graham. I know he’ll appreciate.—Bill

big deal for me is to work in different places out of Argentina to understand the profession of ag aviation in a more global sense.

The way you could help me would be giving me a hand with some contacts. You were the first person who came to my head when I started to think about this, because you have traveled to several places, meeting people. The main idea is to get a job abroad as an ag pilot, changing the country or region from season to season.

If this could be possible, as a retribution I would like to write an article for each place visited, taking the point of view of a young man knowing the profession and the world.

I really feel I can do this, being a pilot has been my childhood dream, and knowing the world is my current dream. If it can be realized by flying, I’ll be the happiest person in the world.

Thank you very much.

Andrés Fargioni Santa Fe, Argentina Hola Andrés; Of course I remember you and the wonderful reception your family gave Walt and me a year ago in March of last year.

I’ll try to address your question as best I can. Everyone’s situation is different. There is no clear way to get a flying job outside of one’s own country. There are visas, work permits, sponsors, etc., that have to be taken into consideration. It is not easy.

I don’t think you will have much success at finding a job from a stranger. I would be very cautious in that respect. It is too easy to take advantage of someone after they have

left their native country and are in a strange place. This would mean that you need to find someone you know who has a flying service and work for them, just to be on the safe side. If this is not possible, then I suggest you attend some of the foreign conventions and try to meet someone, befriend them and go from there.

As a matter of policy AgAir Update, or me, make recommendations for pilots or operators about hiring.

My bad luck would be that I would suggest someone and for some reason it did not work out for you, or for them, and I would be the one blamed.

To really know a person or a company, one must have firsthand experience with that person or company on a regular basis.

Remember, I said everyone is different and everyone sees things from different viewpoints. You may think you are an excellent pilot, while someone else may not think so after hiring you. Or, someone may think they are offering you a golden flying opportunity, but once you started, you did not agree. I cannot, in my position, afford to get into a recommendation situation. I hope you understand.

Many pilots dream of leaving their homes and flying abroad. For most, it is a dream. For a very few, it becomes a reality. I have an article coming in a future edition of AgAir Update of an American ag-pilot, young like you, who was able to get a job in Australia.

He is happy and was very fortunate.

I do not know the details of how he was able to accomplish this, but he promises to tell me in the article. I am sure it took a lot of persistence.

I know I don’t offer you much hope, but you ask for a nearly impossible task. Don’t give up on your dreams,

Mystery ag plane

Do you know this airplane?

OK, we all know it is a Stearman, however, be more specific.

See page 36 for answer.

Submitted by Danny Kubecka, Edna, TX

just try to keep them a reality. There is no better place than home...—Bill

FeArCa I am glad I just got the AgAir Update Latinoamerica (AAU-LA) email. Scott and I are planning on being at the “XXI Congreso Mercosur y Latinoamericano de Aviación Agrícola”. On their website (http://www.fearca.com.ar/) they have two sets of dates listed. The 8-10th of August 2012 and the 15th-17th. Do you have any contact information for them? I have tried emailing them through their web based email with no results and the only number I am finding is for a fax.

Tom Welch Cascade Aircraft Conversions Garfield, WA

Hi Tom I am not aware of this issue, but we are in contact with them and I will ask Walt to sort out with a copy of this email.—Bill Hello All According to an email I received from Orlando Martinez, president of FeArCa the dates are August 15th-17th.

Regards Walt Jazun

Attention Air Tractor 802 Operators: • Lower stall speeds • Improve your control in slow flight • Gain extra aileron authority to handle windy and gusty conditions

Call for Your Stall Improvement Array Kit Today!

651.209. 7191 www.firebossllc.com March 2012

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A UTH O R IZED

D E A LE R S

Domestic

International

FARM AIR, INC. (877) 715-8476 farmair@winco.net

NEAL AIRCRAFT, INC. (806)828-5892 larry@nealaircraft.com

FROST FLyINg, INC. (870) 295-6213 jrfrost47@hotmail.com

qUEEN bEE AIR SpECIALTIES (208) 745-7654 / 1-800-736-7654 chipkemper@aol.com

LANE AvIATION (281) 342-5451 / 1-888-995-5263 glane@laneav.com

SOUTHEASTERN AIRCRAFT (722) 461-8924 / 1-800-441-2964 mail@southeasternaircraft.com vALLEy AIR CRAFTS (559)686-7401 valleyaircraft@clearwire.net

Parts Only AbIDE AERO CORp. (688) 378-2282

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AgSUR AvIONES, S.A. (Argentina & Brazil) +54 2477 432090 amoreno@waycomnet.com.ar

FROST FLyINg, INC. (Central & South America) (870) 295-6213 jrfrost47@hotmail.com

AIR TRACTOR EUROpE (Europe & North Africa) a division of Avialsa +34 96 265 41 00 v.huerta@avialsa.com

LANE AvIATION (Mexico, Central & South America) (281) 342-5451 / 1-888-995-5263 glane@laneav.com

CONAIR gROUp INC. (Canada) (604) 855-1171 rpedersen@conair.ca FIELD AIR (SALES) pTy. LTD. (Australia) +61 353 394 222 sales@fieldair.com.au

Ag AvIATION AFRICA (Southern Africa) +(27) 82-451-5388 lourens@agaviationafrica.com qUEEN bEE AIR SpECIALTIES (Canada) (208) 745-7654 / 1-800-736-7654 chipkemper@aol.com

Olney, Texas 76374 940-564-5616

Volume 6 spring 2012

S ER VI N G THE F IRE ATT ACK AN D F ORE ST RY AI RCR A FT IND U S TR Y

from the S.E.A.T.

Marc Mullis marc@agairupdate.com

Here we go again A new fire season is already upon us.

It seems like the last one just ended!

Texas released most of its firefighting assets around Thanksgiving with the understanding things would probably get busy again in early spring. The fires continued through the winter, however, the long nights and short days made them much easier to contain. The long range forecast is for the drought to continue in the southwest with a strengthening La Nina pattern. Mountains across the west have a less than normal snowpack and should expect a longer than average season.

Due to lawsuits filed against the United States Forest Service regarding the agency’s use of fire retardant, a judge has ruled that about thirty percent of USFS property will be off limits for the

use of retardant. This ruling is going to be a great burden to fire managers and flight crews alike. Who is going to be responsible for determining where the line on the ground is and what happens when a load is accidentally dropped in the forbidden zone?

A portion of the lawsuits are asking where and how much retardant was used in the past. There has never been any requirement for this type of information, but I see future contracts requiring recording equipment in the retardant delivery system that notes gallonage and a latitude/longitude.

A long time icon of the heavy air tanker industry, Aero Union, has closed its doors and let go sixty employees. This follows the cancellation of the company’s contract with the USFS over maintenance issues.

ContaCt YoUR REPRESEntatIVES...

Not easy, you say? You may have found phone and fax numbers easily, or a service that provides more for a fee. But good email addresses can be elusive. Here’s a site that shows all you need about your politicians, including their voting record, with just two or three clicks.

Go to http://www.congressmerge.com/onlinedb/index.htm, then insert your zip code - that’s all - and your reps’ names appear. Click on a name and much more shows up, including email address, committees, etc.

Usually television coverage of wildland fires included one of Aero Union’s red and white P-3s making a drop. All of the company’s assets will be auctioned off in late February. All of the aircrews were part of the aerial firefighting brotherhood and many were good friends. I wish them all the best of luck for the future.

New, exclusive-use SEAT contracts will be issued for the upcoming fire season.

The variable term contracts that were part of the current cycle have been cancelled due to lawsuits over the selection process.

Details of the new contracts are not available at this writing, but should be out soon.

In 2004, the Department of Interior’s (DOI) Office of Aircraft Services (OAS) was realigned under the National Business Services (NBC) and renamed the Aircraft

Management Directorate (AMD). This small agency is tasked with oversight of all aircraft and pilots employed by the DOI. The transition was not without its bumps, as mountains of forms had to be reprinted with the new name. Rumors are floating now that the agency is going to be realigned again under the Wildland Fire Coordination Center (WFCC) and its new name will be, you guessed it, Office of Aircraft Services.

It is the time of year for recurrent training and many of us will be headed to Boise in a few days. Then, it will be on to Sacramento for simulator training. I hope everyone has a safe and prosperous season and maybe I’ll see you in the mountains one day.

Marc

advertisers index These advertisers are responsible for bringing you AirFire & Forestry.

Please thank them.

Air Tractor..........................................................................................................8F FireBoss.......................................................................................................... 14F Frost Flying..................................................................................................... 15F Isolair.............................................................................................................. 12F Lane Aviation.................................................................................................. 13F Turbine Installation.......................................................................................... 12F March 2012

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World’s first trto for Fire Boss

by Igor Bozinovski Valencia, Spain - Air Tractor Europe S.L., the exclusive Air Tractor dealer for Europe, North Africa and Middle East has recognized the importance of developing appropriate training for pilots and technical staff that are flying and maintaining the AT-802. Air Tractor Europe’s sister company, Avialsa T-35, is an EASA Part 145 maintenance organization that specializes in providing all levels of maintenance and comprehensive logistical support for different types of Air Tractors. This has provided Air Tractor Europe with an excellent opportunity to establish a highquality training system for AT-802 pilots and related technical staff. The first step towards achieving this goal was Air Tractor Europe’s request for Avialsa to provide a dual cockpit training version of the highly successful float-equipped Air Tractor AT-802A Fire Boss.

In March 2010, Avialsa provided Air Tractor Europe with the first dual-cockpit, dual-controlled, EASAcertified AT-802 Fire Boss fire-fighting and training amphibian aircraft. The development of the aircraft was a result of tight cooperation of Avialsa, Air Tractor Europe, the Air Tractor factory

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and Minnesota-based floats producer Wipaire, Inc. The certification of the aircraft by the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) opened the doors for serial production of the dual cockpit AT-802 Fire Boss and deployment in the much-needed training role.

Shortly after getting access to its first dual cockpit AT-802 Fire Boss, Air Tractor Europe trained pilots of Macedonia’s Protection and Rescue Directorate that had purchased three single-seat AT-802As. The purchase had included the training package. The positive results from the initial use of a dual cockpit Fire Boss in a training role resulted in a growing interest by several AT-802 operators. Over the past two years, a total of seven dual cockpit AT-802 Fire Boss’s have been produced

by Avialsa - two of them were sold to Israel in early 2011, while the remaining five remained with Avialsa T-35 for training new pilots, keeping existing pilots current as well as for scheduled and unscheduled proficiency checks of AT-802 pilots by Avialsa Class Rating Instructors (CRI) and Class Rating Examiners (CRE). When necessary, Avialsa uses its own dual cockpit AT802 Fire Boss in a ire-fighting role - the

presence of the second seat provides a cockpit for the air coordinator of fire-fighting operations or any other professional that can assist the frontseat pilot in performing his duties.

Under the leadership of Air Tractor Europe and Avialsa president, Mr. Vicente Huerta, the quality training of AT-802 pilots has lead his two companies in numerous achievements over the past two years. In the second half of 2010, Air Tractor Europe established an EASA Part 147 Training Center that provides technical training to the engineering staff for different levels of maintenance for the AT802. One year later, under Air Tractor Europe’s initiative, Avialsa became the world’s first AT-802 SET and SET(SEA) Type Rating Training Organization (TRTO) under a certificate that was issued by the Spanish State Air Safety Agency (Agencia Estatal de Seguridad Aerea - AESA) on 27 June 2011, enabling Avialsa’s TRTO to provide training for AT-802 pilots under specifically developed syllabuses for land-based and amphibious AT-802s.

Those syllabuses can be adjusted to provide training for students with either zero or some prior experience with a

The first scoop, then drop at the Sitjar dam near Castellon, Spain during the initial test flight.

land-based AT-802. In addition, specific training courses are also available on demand or when needed by customer(s).

For performing its daily operations, Valencia-based TRTO employees three CRIs and one CRE that have constant access to at least one land-based AT-802 and one AT-802 Fire Boss. The number of TRTO planes is increased when there is a need of more aircraft in the training process.

Air Tractor Europe’s vision for the future and its intentions to transform Valencia into a center of excellence for training of the AT-802 was evident during the 49th International Paris Air Show that took place at Le Bourget Airport 20 - 26 June 2011. Avialsa presented to EUREKA’s Eurostars Programme a 1.99 million Euro grant for the creation of an advanced training center for the Air Tractor AT-802. Included in the project is an AT-802 flight simulator system, officially named Flight and Navigation Procedures Trainer (FNPT) for both land and amphibious configurations. The simulator will have unique capabilities of simulating fire-fighting missions with an unparralled level of accuracy. This project will significantly help increase

(Left-Right): An Avialsa AT-802 targets a fire, while a dual cockpit Fire Boss during its inaugural flight over the Castellon (Spain) Beach. Avialsa bases it main fire fighting operations and TRTO flights here. A fleet of AT-802s on standby for a call from the “Bombers de Castelló” fire department. the quality of training for AT-802 pilots and supplement recurrent training in the AT-802 Fire Boss.

Although being key a supporter of Air Tractor Europe in its development of sophisticated training system for AT802, Avialsa T-35 remains recognized around the globe as the largest EASA Part 145 maintenance organization for Air Tractors. The company is also known as the largest AT-802 operator in the world. As a result, Avialsa’s fleet of single-engine fire fighting and agricultural configured AT-802 planes regularly operate in Spain, Italy and Portugal. This gives Avialsa the ability to

promptly answer any urgent calls from governments or other customers from around the globe. At the beginning of 2012, Avialsa’s fleet consisted of 30 aircraft, of which 15 are land-based AT-802s and 15 are float-equipped Fire Boss’s. In addition, Avialsa also operates a fleet of Cessna 337 Skymasters for rapid deployment capability of its pilots, technical staff and spare parts.

Avialsa is fully authorized and capable of performing various installations and modifications for the Air Tractor, including response to aircraft-on-ground (AOG), as well as providing field assistance whenever necessary.

Aviala’s main base is at the Valencia International Airport (LEVC/Spain).

Planes on the ramp are waiting for an annual inspection with an additional five AT-802s inside the hangar. Also on the ramp are coordination aircraft for fire fighting operations.

A dual cockpit Fire Boss takes off in Macedonia for a training mission with the student in front and instructor in the rear. The aircraft is outfitted with a complete, dual panel and dual controls for instruction.

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The next generation Air Tanker

by Marc Mullis After many years of speculation and rumors, the United States Forest Service has finally decided that it is time to stop cutting bait and actually start fishing.

On November 30th, the agency posted a solicitation for bids for what they call the “Next Generation Air Tanker”. The criteria listed in the solicitation are for a turbine powered aircraft with a target capacity of 3,000-5,000 gallons and a minimum capacity of 2,400 gallons.

The aircraft must be capable of a cruise speed of 300 knots at 18,000 feet. Three of the new aircraft are to be added in 2012 with four more added the following year; with an option for up to 28 more by 2018. The bids are due on January 20th.

Out of the current fleet of eleven heavy air tankers in the nation’s fleet of firefighting aircraft, only one meets the criteria for the bid. That is the

BAe-146 leased and operated by Neptune Aviation out of Missoula, Montana. That aircraft was put on a temporary contract last summer and operated briefly in Texas and Southern California as Tanker 40. Minden Air of Minden, Nevada is currently testing their own version of the BAe-146.

AgAir Update’s AirFire & Forestry printed an article on the BAe-146 several years ago and it appears to be a very capable aircraft in the tanker role. The other ten tankers in the fleet are all late 1940s era piston powered P2-Vs. There are quite a few aircraft in service today that would be viable tankers for the new contract. It will be interesting to see what the results are in five years. It is a huge monetary investment for a company to do the airframe conversion and testing

Tanker 40 making one of its first operational drops on a fire in Newton County Texas on October 3, 2011. Photo from the official Facebook site of the Governor of Texas.

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AirFire & Forestry

required for a new tanker aircraft. The USFS seems to have slowed research and development by suggesting that the agency might purchase replacement aircraft and contract with private companies to operate them. At one time the agency said it would like to acquire a fleet of new Lockheed C-130Js for firefighting, but the five billion dollar price tag put an end to that idea.

Three of the new aircraft are to be added in 2012 with four more added the following year The new solicitation has at least set a positive course for the replacement of the nation’s aging and dwindling heavy air tanker fleet. This marks the end of one era and the beginning of a new. The days of the piston powered air tankers will soon be only a memory.

Neptune Aviation’s BAe-146 was on a provisional contract this past fire season and saw some action in Texas and Southern California. This aircraft would meet the requirements of the new contract.

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March 2012

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AirFire & Forestry

Single-engine air tanker (SEAT) pilots are carded, or licensed, by the U.S. Department of the Interior’s Aviation Management Directorate (AMD).

The department’s Bureau of Land Management (BLM) provides training for SEAT pilots.

SEAT pilot candidates must: • Possess at least a commercial pilot certificate issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

• Possess at least a second-class medical certificate issued by the FAA (awarded by a physician who has examined the pilot based on criteria required by the FAA).

• Complete initial training and be approved for operation under a company’s 14 CFT 137 (Agricultural Aviation Operations) certificate.

• Meet minimum pilot experience specified in the contract; for example, an individual must have low level flying experience and a minimum of 1,500 flight hours of pilot experience.

• Graduate from the National SEAT Pilot Training Course taught by the BLM. • Graduate from the SEAT Academy (training course includes academic

work as well as flight simulator training).

• Complete online training classes designed for SEAT pilots.

• Pass a pilot’s evaluation administered by an AMD pilot inspector, including a flight check.

Additional requirements: New SEAT pilots are initially approved as Level 2, or trainee pilots, limited to operations in specific conditions and requiring additional supervision in certain circumstances. They are upgraded to Level 1 status after meeting specific experience requirements.

For pilots at either level to keep their cards, they must: • Fly at least every 14 days. If they do not drop water or retardant on a fire within 14 days, then the pilot must perform a scenario-based training flight simulating a fire operation.

• Annually renew their FAA-required medical certificates.

• Complete a company’s annual training program.

• Attend the National SEAT Pilot Training Course every three years.

• Pass an AMD pilot evaluation; every three years for Level 1 pilot and annually for Level 2 pilots. source: TxAAA magazine

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LIGHT - OVERHAUL 1.) A light overhaul does not increase the value of your engine as a zero TSO will.

2.) A light overhaul on average can make your aircraft worth $150,000.00 less than an aircraft with a zero TSO entry. Today we live in a world market and with the advent of the internet your trade has a good chance of spending its next life in a different country which requires an engine under TBO. 3.) A light overhaul does not address the whole engine, only specific parts that are called out in the work scope. Twenty years ago a light overhaul was called an IRAN, the only difference being that in most shops a IRAN consisted of looking at the whole engine (all of the parts). An IRAN was represented to be just that. Not to politicize the word overhaul, a low cost zero time overhaul consists of using overhauled parts and Pratt & Whitney vendors, as needed, in a low overhead shop where the savings could be passed on. We are a shop that has been overhauling PT6’s for over 30 years and that gives you one price and sticks to it. A light overhaul very seldom meets the advertised price. Remember, if meeting the price was the target, then some needed work would have to be left unaccomplished on a light overhaul.

On a zero TSO overhaul every single part of the whole engine has to be addressed and returned to Pratt & Whitney overhaul spec’s. If you need a (Light overhaul?) Turbines, Inc. can do a proper IRAN at lower cost than any other shop. Turbines, Inc. was the very first shop to do IRANS on ag engines starting in 1981. And after more than 30 years, the same mechanics at Turbines, Inc. are doing them today. No disrespect intended, but some of the other shops were not in the PT6 business then and their present day mechanics were not even born yet.

4.) To sum it up, experience equates to lower pricing, better quality of work (safety & reliability), plus you have someone you can call who has operational experience. As a footnote, Turbines, Inc. has had a “137 certificate” since 1986 and operates three “500 gallon -34” airplanes. We understand the language you speak when you call us for advice or need help to get you going again. Most of the mechanics here are war veterans going back to the Vietnam era and are of that work ethic. We have always been known to tell the truth and we consider it a point of honor to stick by our quotes.

If all of this raises any questions about light overhauls, IRANS, or Zero time engine overhauls, give me a call any time at 812-877-2587 or my cell phone at 812-249-0364.

Jim Mills President

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turbines@turbinesinc.com • www. turbinesinc.com

agairupdate.com

Updates from New Zealand “Last Word - Urban Refugees” We’ve talked a lot recently about the reverse sensitivity issues that come from Urban Refugees (lifestylers) particularly in the circumstances that they complain when their peace is shattered by aircraft, wind machines, weaned calves, chainsaws, trucks etc. Consider this. It is possible that these folk are averse to noise disturbance altogether and that is the very reason they have gone to live in the country in the first place. The fact is that the country is not a quiet place to live all of the time so their expectations are rarely met. So when dealing with a complaint from one of these folk, it might help your case to be mindful of the possibility that their complaint is driven by disappointment. To my way of thinking, there is an opportunity for all the industries that cohabit the countryside to join forces to educate urban NZ about the contribution that rural NZ makes to the economy but as a consequence of doing that, it generates noise, dust and smells.

Source: New Zealand AAA

Breaking News – Wind Monitoring Towers Following several months of discussion the NZ Wind Energy Association has agreed that in respect of wind monitoring masts: •All new ones will be painted orange/ white and have their bases marked with white around the guy wires •Existing ones will have their bases marked with white around the guy wires •Additionally some will have lights fitted but this is only around airports.

The process of getting resource consent for these lights is the reason that it is impractical to light them all.

This is not a bad outcome given that the masts typically have a life of only two years so in less than two years we can expect all the masts to be painted and marked.

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March 2012

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AIR-TEC named authorized service center for GE’s M601 and H80 engines EVENDALE, OHIO—AIR-TEC Aviation Maintenance has signed an agreement with GE Aviation to become an Authorized Service Center for the M601 and H80 turboprop engines. As part of the agreement, AIR-TEC will offer comprehensive line maintenance, removals and re-installations of engines

and LRUs and engine spares for the M601 and H80 engine families. In addition, AIR-TEC will provide some onwing heavy repairs and manage a pool of spare / rental engines for the African region. GE Aviation will provide AIR-TEC with comprehensive material support and training.

“AIR-TEC has extensive experience with L410/420 aircraft, powered by M601 engines,” said Paul Theofan, president and managing executive of GE Aviation’s Business and General Aviation Turboprops. “As an Authorized Service Center, AIR-TEC will provide its customers with enhanced maintenance

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To experience the next generation of engine performance, call: Greg Ryan Sales Representative North and South America +1.954.292.5312 gregjames.ryan@ge.com

Michal Ptacnik Sales Representative Europe, Africa, Asia and Australia +420.222.538.701 michal.ptacnik@ge.com

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options to ensure their planes remain in top operating condition. Africa has a large installed base of M601-powered L410 aircraft and represents a significant growth opportunity for the H80 engine.

This cooperation with AIR-TEC will play a key role in the H80 growth in the region.”

A key contributor to the successful introduction of the M601-powered L410 in the African market, AIR-TEC is now the largest L410 fleet operator in Africa. As well as being an aircraft operator, AIR-TEC also sells and leases L410/420 aircraft for regional airlines, aid agencies and NGOs, oil exploration companies and clients requiring smaller aircraft. Based in Port-Louis, Mauritius, AIR-TEC has branches in France, the Czech Republic and South Africa. The company’s goal is to provide its clients with first-class services to ensure their operational success, and its wide array of fleet diversifaction and custom-made leases allow AIR-TEC to provide its clients with a solution that works best.

GE Aviation’s Business & General Aviation Turboprops has more than 1,600 M601 engines in service that have accumulated more than 17 million flight hours on 30 applications. The H80 engine recently received its engine type certification from the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and will power business and general aviation, utility and agriculture aircraft. The H80 engine combines the elegant, robust design of the M601 engine with GE’s 3-D aerodynamic design techniques and advanced materials to create a more powerful, fuel-efficient, durable engine compared with the M601 engine, with no recurrent fuel nozzle inspections and no hot section inspection. The H80 engine will also feature an extended service life of 3,600 flight-hours or 6,600 cycles between overhauls, significantly enhanced hot-day takeoff performance and high-altitude cruise speeds. The H80 will provide the option of a single- or dual-acting governor, allowing customers flexibility in propeller selection.

The H80 engine has been selected to power multiple applications, including the Aircraft Industries L410 commuter plane, Thrush 510G agricultural aircraft and Technoavia’s newly designed

Rysachok aircraft, a twin-engine, 10-seat general aviation aircraft. The H80powered Thrush 510G aircraft has been flight testing since last year and entry into service is anticipated this year. In November, Aircraft Industries began its flight tests of the H80-powered L410 aircraft, which is expected to enter service later this year.

GE Aviation, an operating unit of GE (NYSE: GE), is a world-leading provider of jet and turboprop engines, components and integrated systems for commercial, military, business and general aviation aircraft. GE Aviation has a global service

network to support these offerings.

For more information, visit us at www. ge.com/aviation. Learn more about GE Business & General Aviation at http://facebook.com/GEBGA. Follow GE Aviation on Twitter at http:// twitter.com/GEAviation and YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/user/ GEAviation.

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SAIB: Landing gear, tire tube Landing Gear, Tire Tube. Goodyear Aviation Tires, Flight Mate Butyl SAIB: CE-11-47R1 Inner Tube, 7.00-8.00-6.

Date: January 30, 2012 This is information only.

Recommendations aren’t mandatory.

introduction This Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin (SAIB) alerts operators, pilots, and aircraft manufacturers of possible inner tube failures made from butyl rubber by Goodyear Aviation Tires, (Goodyear).

At this time, the failure of the inner tubes is not an unsafe condition that would warrant airworthiness directive (AD) action under Title 14 of the Code of Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR) part 39.

The SAIB has been revised to incorporate updated information from Goodyear and highlight inner tube failures are not limited to only cold weather operations.

background There have been several reports of Goodyear inner tubes failures during cold weather operations. The failures were reported following short flights or following ground operations. Goodyear is aware of these failures and has made several attempts to improve the cold weather performance of its inner tubes. In November 2008, Goodyear incorporated a change to its compound for their butyl rubber inner tubes. Since then, the reliability of the inner tubes had increased, but cold weather failures were still reported. Therefore, Goodyear has started to test another improvement to their butyl rubber inner tubes made from an updated compound. Following successful field testing, Goodyear will make the improved inner tubes available.

Goodyear inner tube failures are not limited to only cold weather operations, additional failures have been reported.

Goodyear is aware of the issues from the field and began an improvement

program to investigate and improve the inner tubes. A flex crack was occasionally observed on the natural fold from the extrusion process during manufacturing.

The compound was modified to reduce the impact of extrusion, optimize splicing pressure and improve flex which should improve crack resistance.

Goodyear inner tube failures are not limited to only cold weather operations.

Additionally cold temperature properties of the tube were improved to further enhance performance for cold temperature operations. Inner tubes were produced with the improved compound and field tested with positive results.

As of August 15, 2011 the production

has been changed over to the modified compound for 5.00-5 inner tubes.

recommendations The FAA recommends you provide special attention during pre-flight to airplane tires withGoodyear butyl rubber inner tubes by: Checking to ensure that all tires are properly inflated and are holding pressure; Being prepared to compensate for a flat tire during landing as this might pull the airplane to the affected side; and Providing extra awareness during cross wind landing conditions on narrow and on short runways.

Owners of airplanes with Butyl Rubber inner tubes, made by Goodyear, should contact Goodyear for further information.

For Further Information Contact Anthony Flores, Aerospace Engineer, 2300 East Devon Ave, Des Plaines, IL 60018; fax; (847) 294-7834; e-mail: anthony.flores@faa.gov.

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HATFIELD FIRE GATES GE CONVERSIONS

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March 2012

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the FAA safety team

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Use caution, avoid takeoff and landing accidents Of recent aerial application accidents, 14% involve the take off and landing phase of flight. Don’t become a statistic!

• Use a suitable runway. Make sure it is long enough, wide enough, and free from ruts and potholes and not too soft or too wet.

• Make sure you can see obstructions or other aircraft throughout the entire length of your runway.

• Watch out for tailwinds. Keep in mind that a downwind takeoff or landing is not worth the cost of a major repair of hull loss.

• Be aware of crosswinds; they can cause problems and can have gusts that exceed aircraft or pilot limits.

• Do not exceed certificated operating

weights. Remember density altitude.

Reduce the load as temperature climbs. Remember that overweight aircraft may not get airborne.

• Use care taking off and landing into the sun.

• If you are using a CAM 8 maximum operating weight, make sure it has been flight tested and documented and that CG limits have been established.

• Keep in mind that exceeding CG limits can make a taildragger even more difficult to control on takeoff and landing.

• Always have a no-go point for every takeoff and abort the flight if you are not airborne.

• Watch for traffic at all times. Make position report on CTAF at airports.

Remember that aerial applicators have had midair collisions.

• If a takeoff does not feel right, abort.

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THE SAME FUNGICIDE THAT LIFTS YIELDS FOR CORN GROWERS CAN ALSO LIFT YOUR BUSINESS.

Headline AMP™ fungicide combines the proven power of Headline® fungicide with a unique triazole for corn that stops diseases in their tracks. And independent trials demonstrate that Headline AMP delivered more bushels of corn per acre than any other fungicide.* Your ultimate success can depend on the performance of the fungicide you apply. So use Headline AMP, and your business can take off too.

Visit HeadlineAMP.com or talk to your authorized BASF retailer today.

*Results summary 34 university and seed company small-plot replicated trials conducted 2007-2010 Always read and follow label directions. ©2011 BASF Corporation. All Rights Reserved.

APN 11-01-268-0011

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agairupdate.com

Products, programs and sponsorships for a healthy ag aviation industry BASF: An active partner supporting the aerial application industry Aerial applicators and growers across the country are looking ahead to a busy, fruitful year. As they plan for 2012, one partner they can continue to count on for support is BASF. BASF remains focused on growing the market for aerial applicators to help increase demand for their business.

The company does so by providing crop protection products that are effective, reliable and economical for aerial application, but that’s not all.

Below are some highlights of the involvement of BASF in developing and maintaining a healthy aerial application industry.

Improved disease control and Plant Health, from the skies Since the introduction of Headline® fungicide in 2003, BASF has helped lead the proliferation of aerial application of fungicides.

Through the early 2000s, the main products applied via aerial application had been herbicides and insecticides.

Fungicide applications, on the other hand, were much more rare. Headline changed that.

With research highlighting the disease control, Plant Health benefits and resulting yield improvement provided

by Headline, it became an attractive product for growers—especially as commodity prices continued to rise.

“All of a sudden, the aerial application companies go from spraying 100,000 acres a year to spraying half a million to

a million acres a year,” said Clay Rassi, National Sales Manager for AgSync.

Today, BASF offers a number of fungicide products, in addition to Headline, that can be applied aerially.

That includes TwinLine® fungicide and Caramba® fungicide for cereals, and Headline AMP™ fungicide, a combination fungicide specifically developed for corn growers who want maximum protection from foliar disease, as well as improved Plant Health.

Increasing accuracy, efficiency In addition to providing these products, BASF also has supported the development of mapping tools to improve the accuracy and efficiency of aerial applications.

This was partly in response to the large increase in business that resulted from the release of Headline.

Many more fields were being sprayed, Rassi said, “but with the same people and the same equipment.”

This increased acres-to-applicators ratio was a challenge, especially because of the planning process common to aerial applicators, which, as recently as 2005, still involved the tedious manual mapping of routes and spray areas that resulted in inaccuracies and unreached profit potential for growers.

With the number of acres that required application increasing ten-fold, a need developed for a more accurate, efficient way to do business.

A solution hit the market in 2006: AgSync.

AgSync is a complete aerial work order management software system focused specifically on helping aerial applicators cover more acres without having to hire planning staff. By providing simpler coordination between retailers and applicators, the program has helped reduce the average applicator’s annual workload by 40 percent.

David Roth, of Nebraska-based Roth Aerial Spraying Inc., credits AgSync with helping his company become more efficient. It helps Roth’s company simply maintain records and easily access them later on.

“It allows us to do things that we were not able to do before,” Roth said.

BASF is the exclusive marketing partner for AgSync.

“BASF has been a huge supporter of agricultural aviation, and I really appreciate things like AgSync,” said Tom Rongen, of Minnesota-based AgriMax LLC. “To bring that technology forward — I don’t know if it would have advanced without BASF.”

Additional support Support for programs that benefit the aerial applicator industry is also important to BASF. That’s why the company sponsors the Operation S.A.F.E. (Self-Regulating Application and Flight Efficiency) fly-ins held throughout the country.

The clinics are meant as an opportunity to boost equipment performance, applicator knowledge and ensure safety. Hands-on sessions put

Tony Goede, BASF Aerial Manager applicators in touch with trained analysts to get planes in top working condition, as well as teach applicators about pertinent legal requirements.

In just three years, more than 1,250 aircrafts have been inspected at nearly 150 Operation S.A.F.E. fly-ins.

“Operation S.A.F.E. fly-ins are a great opportunity for applicators and one of the best means of evaluating spray patterns, droplet size and application precision,” said Tony Goede, BASF Aerial Manager. “BASF also is working hard to increase participation and National Agricultural Aviation Association (NAAA) membership, for the good of everyone in the industry.”

BASF also has an eye on the future of the aerial applicator industry. Manpower is essential, which is why BASF supports the annual NAAA annual scholarship program. Each year, these scholarships help new and in-training pilots get the education they need to become successful aerial applicators.

“BASF is on the cutting edge of fungicides,” Roth said, “but it’s also on the cutting edge of agricultural aviation.

They have helped promote and maintain a professional image for the industry.”

Always read and follow label directions.

BASF Aerial Applicator Solutions www.plant-health-pilots.com Operation S.A.F.E. www.agaviation.org/content/aboutoperation-safe AgSync www.agsync.com

March 2012

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naaa corner

Understanding the new NPDES PGPs is tricky business, but NAAA is here to help It’s an NPDES Pesticide General Permit (PGP) world now, and until a legislative solution comes to fruition, aerial applicators need to comply with this new reality or suffer the consequences.

Every aerial applicator who applies pesticides into, over or near waters of the U.S., or helps make decisions about applying such pesticides is now subject to NPDES pesticide general permits (PGPs)—either developed by EPA or individual states. For the states in which you operate, you will need to know what’s required to comply with these PGPs to avoid triggering enforcement action, or worse, citizen suits.

NAAA has worked hard to provide its

   

Annual Inspection Hot Section Inspection Gear Box Inspection Nozzle Cleaning & Flowing

members with as much information as possible to assist them in negotiating the many complexities of the permit.

As a result, the Association has developed several documents to aid aerial applicators in complying with the permit. These resources are available on NAAA’s website at www.agaviation. org. The following information is a starting point to help aerial applicators of pesticides understand how these PGPs could affect their business. It is not legal advice, and NAAA urges aerial applicators to review the EPA documents for themselves.

Why NPDES Permit Coverage is Important: Before the U.S. Court of

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Appeals, 6th Circuit, decision in 2009 and the final issuance of these NPDES permits in 2011, pesticide applicators and the entities that hired applicators simply had to comply with FIFRA labels plus any other state laws that might apply. However, with the 6th Circuit’s decision, it is now a federal violation of the Clean Water Act (CWA) to spray a pesticide from an airplane or ground sprayer into (either directly or nearby so that it settles into) a waterbody of the U.S. without coverage by, and compliance with, an NPDES permit.

EPA’s PGP became effective Oct. 31, 2011, but for 120 days (through February 2012) the agency focused on compliance assistance related to the PGP, rather than enforcement. Not every type of pesticide application that would be subject to the CWA is covered by the EPA general permit; those applications must be covered by a state PGP or another type of NPDES permit.

It is important to note that the EPA’s original draft NPDES PGP placed a much higher burden on for-hire applicators than its final rule does.

For example, EPA’s first draft of the permit required non-decision-making applicators to file a Notice of Intent (NOI) if treating more than 640 acres.

Now non-decision-making applicators do not need to file NOIs. This is testament to the grassroots advocacy efforts of many NAAA members and the result of intense lobbying by NAAA, as well as state and regional associations. NAAA has been actively involved in this issue for years and has provided numerous documents and held multiple meetings with the EPA expressing the Association’s concerns about co-permitting of decision-making agencies and for-hire applicators, likely impacts of burdens and costs to the small businesses that make up NAAA membership, the need to enlarge EPA’s annual treatment

thresholds, and more. In fact, many of NAAA’s recommendations have been incorporated into the final version of EPA’s PGP. Although compliance requirements themselves are burdensome, the upside is that once coverage is gained the applicator and/or decision-making entity that has hired the applicator is protected from the substantial enforcement penalties (up to $37,500 per day for each violation, going back to the original date of the violation).

Applicators and Decision-makers: The key question is who must apply for PGP coverage versus who is automatically covered. To assist applicators in determining whether an NPDES permit is required for a pesticide application EPA has developed an interactive pesticide permit decision tool (cfpub.epa.gov/ npdes/pesticides/prtool.cfm). EPA has established different requirements for applicators and decision-making entities (e.g., your clients), and it’s important to know the difference between these categories so you can meet the PGP requirements that apply to your business.

Overall, the PGP regulates the activities of pesticide “operators” involved in discharges (pesticide applications) into, over or near waters of the U.S. These are either (1) “applicators” who perform the application of pesticides or have day-to-day control over the pesticide applications (i.e., they are authorized to direct workers to carry out those activities) that result in discharges to U.S. waters; or (2) “decision-makers” who have control over the decision to perform pesticide applications, including the ability to modify those decisions, that result in discharges to U.S. waters.

Automatic coverage for those operators to whom it is available is a benefit, for less paperwork and compliance requirements are involved.

EPA and State Jurisdictional Water: EPA’s PGP regulates pesticide

applications that result in discharges to “Waters of the U.S.,” whereas many state versions of the newly implemented PGP regulate pesticide applications that result in discharges to “Waters of the State.” The differences between these jurisdictional definitions can be great and may create confusion and potential legal jeopardy for aerial applicators who service clients across state lines.

Jurisdictional “waters” aren’t just rivers and lakes, but may be dry ditches, potholes or playa lakes at the time of pesticide application. Recently EPA and the Corps of Engineers announced they will undertake a rulemaking to expand the jurisdictional reach of the “Waters of the U.S.” definition. NAAA created a chart to provide aerial applicators with an overview of the differences between these different definitions. It is available on NAAA’s website.

Requirements for Pesticide Applicators: Pesticide applicator requirements are less burdensome than decision-maker PGP requirements, but they are still enforceable and noncompliance could expose an applicator to enforcement action or citizen suits. Perhaps the most important aspect of being an applicator is that you are automatically covered by the PGP without having to complete time-consuming forms. To meet the PGP requirements to minimize the discharge of pesticides to waters of the U.S., in addition to following the FIFRA label requirements, you must employ the following practices: • Use pest management measures • Conduct certain monitoring procedures • Take corrective action as needed • Document adverse incidents • Report certain spills and leaks • Perform recordkeeping • Retain records This list is not inclusive. NAAA has put together a more comprehensive checklist of compliance activities for members that may be found at www. agaviation.org/content/naaachecklist.

Potential Sources of Legal Jeopardy: Just as you have compliance requirements, you will be in legal jeopardy if you fail to perform the PGP requirements in the correct manner or by the deadlines for them indicated in the PGP. The Clean Water Act gives citizens and activist groups the authority to sue pesticide applicators and decision-makers for apparent violations. The more carefully you use best professional practices, document

your PGP compliance and maintain accurate and timely records, the better off you will likely be.

Future of NPDES PGPs: NAAA continues to work with a coalition of agricultural organizations and other allies to seek a legislative exemption for NPDES Clean Water Act permits.

Stakeholders have called the new permitting requirement impractical, unnecessary and prohibitively expensive, and have lobbied Congress to take action. Capitol Hill has responded but to date has not completed a legislative reversal of the court’s decision.

NAAA urges ag pilots in states with Democrat senators to contact their senator. Ask them to support H.R. 872 and urge Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid to bring the legislation up for a vote in the Senate. If you don’t know who your senator(s) is, visit www.

Congress.org and enter your zip code under the “Get Involved” heading to find your appropriate Member of Congress.

Without a congressional fix, aerial applicators should immediately undertake efforts to comply with the EPA PGP or state PGPs in the states

where they do business, and may be subject to enforcement and/or citizen action suits should they violate either the recordkeeping or performance aspects of the PGP. ■ NAAA is tracking each state’s pesticide general permit requirements and has summarized them in a state-bystate comparison chart available on its website at www.agaviation.org/content/ state-pesticide-npdes-general-permits.

Hyperlinks to the actual permits are located within the chart.

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Despite opportunity, many corn and soybean growers leaving profit on the table by not pushing yield Survey: Farmers know more than ever about fungicide application timing and benefits, but many not adopting RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, NC—Strong commodity prices mean corn and soybean growers have excellent profit potential if they can produce good yield, control costs and manage risk. But are growers taking full advantage of the opportunity?

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A recent survey by BASF shows that 83 percent of corn and soybean growers, primarily located in the Midwest, agreed that preventative fungicide application is necessary because once disease is present, yield is already lost. However, 57 percent of those surveyed who used a fungicide in 2011 said they make their fungicide application decision in-season, based on weather and/or disease pressure.

By definition, a preventative fungicide

application involves applying a fungicide product to a crop before any disease incidence has been spotted. Research shows growers who take the necessary steps to prevent their crop from troubling diseases benefit at the end of the season.

Preventative fungicide applications protect crops from diseases by stopping infections before they begin. Disease pressure can account for yield loss of up to 50 percent, depending on the severity of disease incidence. For example, in gray

leaf spot research, crops with 6 to 25 percent affected ear leaf area saw an approximate yield loss of 2 to 10 percent.

A preventative fungicide application helps stop disease from occurring, which protects yield potentials while providing Plant Health benefits like better standability.

In seven years of testing and more than 6,000 on-farm trials, BASF has seen an average of a 4 to 8 bushel per acre increase in soybean yield over untreated

acres when using Headline® fungicide preventatively. Results from 137 on-farm trials in 2011 show a 12.8 bushel per acre yield increase with an application of Headline AMP™ fungicide on corn compared to untreated fields.

“More and more growers are learning about the positive returns possible with a preventative fungicide application,” said Nick Fassler, BASF Technical Market Manager. “And with commodity prices as high as they’ve been, it makes more sense than ever to make plans for controlling disease in 2012.”

Growers can also take advantage of incentives to pre-plan their BASF fungicide application in 2012 through several money-saving offers: • Headline Advantage—Purchase Headline fungicide, Headline AMP fungicide and/or TwinLine® fungicide by March 15, 2012, and you may be eligible to save up to 20 percent off your qualifying fungicide purchase when you purchase a second BASF product such as Kixor® herbicide technology.

• Investment Advantage—Growers who purchase at least 300 acres worth of three products within a BASF High Yield Package by March 15, 2012, may receive a partial rebate of their qualifying High Yield purchases if the BASF Harvest Price for the corresponding commodity ends below the BASF Established Starting Price.

• Finance Advantage—Growers who choose to finance the qualifying purchase of two or more BASF products by March 15, 2012 will receive no payments and no interest until December 2012. Growers can increase their bottom line by saving money with interest-free financing.

their main basis for fungicide application • 65 percent of growers surveyed agreed they can see a visual difference in their fields after applying a fungicide • Larger growers (those with more than 1,000 acres) were more likely to use a fungicide product in 2011, compared to smaller growers (those with 999 or fewer acres) • However, smaller operations were more likely to use a fungicide product on a larger percentage of their acres • 81 percent of growers with less than 500 acres sprayed a fungicide on all of their acres, compared to 24 percent of growers with 1,000 to 3,000 acres, and 27 percent of growers with more than 3,000 acres For more information on BASF Crop protection products, visithttp:// agproducts.basf.us, like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter. *For full survey results, please contactBASF_Crop_News@ Padillaspeer.com.

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Congested area or not?

By Richard Kimmel Attorney at Law — Upshaw Williams Biggers & Beckham LLP It appears that the FAA is focusing once again on the gray area for agricultural aviation between FAR Part 91.119 and FAR Part 137. As agricultural pilots, we need to be award of the FAA’s focus on this area and take all necessary precautions to avoid a violation.

How many pilots have violated FAR 91.110 which prohibits operation below 1,000 feet above the highest obstacle within a horizontal radius of 2,000 of the aircraft over any congested area of the city, town or settlement except when necessary for take off and landings? The outcome determinative issue here is what is a settlement? And what is a congested area? Neither

is defined in the FAR’s or in any FAA publication. The FAA often prefers not to define its terms, instead, they prefer to use vague or undefined terms as “gotchas”. Moreover, a congested area can be far from anything resembling a city, town, or settlement. In legal terminology, these words are mere surplusage. A city man or woman may think that an area with a bunch of

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8 acre lots is rural, but the FAA has held that such an area is congested.

Beaches and highways have been ruled by the FAA to be congested areas.

Thinking about buzzing a freeway? The FAA has held that moderate traffic constitutes a congested area—even if it is far from any house or structure!

Ag pilots live under a different set of rules—FAR Part 137. We are allowed to operate at lower altitudes over congested areas provided we comply with certain requirements. FAR 137.51 requires that ag pilots operating over a congested area need to first operate with “the maximum safety to persons or property on the surface”. Note the operative words “maximum safety”.

When operating over other than congested areas, ag pilots need only operate so as not to create a “hazard to persons or property on the surface”.

Second, they need prior approval from the appropriate official or governing body. Third, they must give notice of the intended operation by some effective means such as newspapers, radio, television or door-to-door notice.

Finally, the operator must submit a plan for each “complete operation” to the local FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO). The plan must include considerations of obstructions to flight; the emergency landing capabilities of the aircraft to be used; and any necessary coordination with air traffic control. Even having complied with all these requirements, an ag pilot may still not operate below Part 91.119 altitude and clearance restrictions except while in actual dispensing operation, including approaches and departures for such operations, unless the aircraft is operated in a pattern and at such an altitude that the aircraft can land in an emergency, without endangering persons or property on the surface. And, except for helicopters, no person can take off a loaded aircraft or make a turnaround over a congested area.

The regs do not define what a “complete operation” is, but you can image it means a contract for a particular client. And you can assume that you need to resubmit your plan, get the appropriate permissions and give the appropriate notices each

year. But how do you know that your operations are over a congested area?

The only way to be safe is to submit a plan to the FSDO first. They will either approve the plan or tell you that your planned operation does not include a congested area. If the latter, you need only comply with FAR 137.49 which waives all altitude and clearance restrictions so long as you do not create a “hazard to persons or property on the surface”.

As you can imagine, even Part 137 has “gotchas”. A father and son ag operation in West Virginia got nailed recently for violation of FAR 137.51.

Low flying violations are almost always initiated by complaints from people on the ground. This particular case was no exception. Numerous witnesses complained that these two ag pilots were flying too low. The pilots did not dispute anything the witnesses said, but argued that the area over which they flew was not congested and that they did not fly over any houses.

The father had been crop dusting in the area for over 30 years—his son for the last 10 years. Over the years they met with FAA inspectors many times to discuss complaints. They had recently

met with their POI (Principal Operations Inspector) to discuss a specific complaint. The POI said that their farm could be considered a congested area, but when asked, could not provide a definition of a congested area. The ag pilots studied the regs in the inspector’s handbook and found no definition or examples and decided their farm was not in a congested area.

There is an old saying that it is better to ask forgiveness than to ask for permission. This saying, however, does not apply to FAA. That is a sure recipe for a violation. And, that is what happened in this case as both father’s and son’s licenses were suspended.

With technology changing on a daily basis, including how we operate agricultural aircraft, I would recommend that you keep strict records as to your flights near any town, city or city boundaries including subdivisions.

It goes without saying that GPS downloads are critical in proving that you have not committed a violation.

Source: MAAA Newsletter January—February 2012 Page 2

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Tom Hoffmann is associate editor of FAA Safety Briefing. He is a commercial pilot and holds an A&P certificate.

aeromedical advisory

The human factors zone New AMT handbook chapter helps unlock the mystery of human factors Imagine yourself traveling through another dimension; a dimension not only of sight and sound, but — especially — of mind. You’re moving into a land of both shadow and substance, of things and ideas. A journey into the curious land of the human condition. You’ve just crossed over into…the human factors zone!

Okay, so that’s not really how the new human factors chapter of the Aviation Maintenance Technician’s (AMT) Handbook starts off, but I think Rod Serling may be on to something.

For years, human factors issues have plagued the aviation industry, presenting more twists, turns, and mind-bending complexities than even the best episode of Twilight Zone could deliver. And, while much of the attention has been focused on the pilot community, human factors can be linked to 80 percent of maintenance errors, which in turn cause or contribute to many aircraft accidents.

In addition, these errors also affect productivity and cause worker injuries.

What’s an AMT to do? For starters, check out the newly minted human factors addendum to the AMT Handbook. Recognizing this topic’s growing importance, the FAA

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dedicated the new chapter (Chapter 14) to unveiling the mystery of human factors as it pertains to maintenance professionals.

“AMTs are exposed to a set of human factors unique in aviation; everything from loud noises and smelly fumes to poor instructions and unrealistic deadlines,” says FAA Airworthiness Safety Inspector Ed Hall. “A better awareness of these factors and how they can disrupt your work routine is critical to preventing them from becoming a problem.”

Many of these common human factors are explained in the addendum, including a special focus on the “Dirty Dozen,” a phrase coined by Transport

Canada to describe 12 of the most common risk factors found in aviation maintenance.

The chapter explains in detail each of the dirty dozen, how to recognize their

symptoms, and what actions you can take to mitigate their deadly effects.

Complacency is an example of one of the dirty dozen that can easily creep into a mechanic’s routine with deadly consequences. For mechanics, a repetitive task, especially an inspection item, may be overlooked or skipped simply because he or she has performed that task a number of times without ever finding a fault.

The key to combating complacency, as the AMT Handbook states, is to stay mentally engaged in the task you’re performing and train yourself to expect a problem with an item you’re inspecting. Also, never assume that an item is acceptable when it has not been inspected.

“This new human factors chapter is going to be an effective tool for AMTs,” says Dr. Bill Johnson, FAA Chief Scientific and Technical Advisor for human factors in Aircraft Maintenance Systems. “Providing a fresh look on this topic will no doubt help AMTs identify and mitigate these potentially deadly accident precursors.”

Johnson adds that the new handbook chapter is “a great primer for AMTs in training,” especially as human factors

becomes integrated with the AMT certification process. Beginning in mid-February 2012, AMT candidates taking the General Knowledge Test will be asked questions regarding human factors in aviation maintenance.

Samples of these questions are available on the FAA website.

Part 147 AMT schools are integrating human factors topics into their training curriculums to prepare students for the change. In the near future, the FAA is also planning to integrate human factors related content to the Practical Test Standards (PTS) for the General oral/practical exam. Check the PTS section of the FAA website (www.faa.gov/training_ testing/testing/airmen/test_standards) for updates. Although the warning signs in aviation maintenance can be small and subtle, errors can easily interconnect like links in a chain. To learn how to break that error chain, I invite you to explore…the human factors zone!

Human factors and how they affect people are very important to aviation maintenance.

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NAAA holds spring board of directors meeting

by Bill Lavender The National Agricultural Aviation Association (NAAA) met for its annual spring board of directors meeting at the Hilton Alexandria Old Town, Alexandria,

Virginia during the weekend of February 10-12, 2012. President Mark Hartz (AR) presided over the meeting.

The hotel is within walking distance of the new office building that NAAA recently bought. An informal tour of the new offices was conducted by Andrew Moore, NAAA Executive Director, for the attendees of the board meeting.

Some minor renovations will need to be completed before the NAAA staff can relocate. It is anticipated they will be done by the fall of this year.

Along with the board of directors meeting, the 2011-2012 Syngentasponsored Leadership Training Class completed its course with a graduation presentation during the President’s reception held Saturday night.

The National Agricultural Aviation Research and Education Foundation (NAAREF), sister organization of NAAA, held its board of directors meeting in conjunction with NAAA’s meeting.

President Rod Thomas presided. The NAAREF, along with other duties, is responsible for the Professional Aerial Applicator’s Support System (PAASS) program.

Additionally, the Women of the National Agricultural Aviation Association (WNAAA) met during the NAAA board of directors meeting.

President Kathy Diehl presided. The various committees of each group met Friday and Saturday morning before the general session of the board meeting held Saturday afternoon.

During Saturday afternoon’s general session of the board meeting, committee chairpersons reported on their meetings.

Of note, the Allied committee discussed convention matters with representatives from the Convention committee.

This year’s convention will be held in Savannah, Georgia, December 3-6 at the Savannah Convention Center. New doors at the facility will allow aircraft to be on display. This year’s theme will be “Charting a Confident Course”.

One of the more significant items that brought a motion before the directors

was an increase in Association dues. The motion was passed and beginning July 1, 2012 the dues for membership in NAAA will be: Operator - $500 plus $100 for each additional aircraft over one; WNAAA, Pilot and Affiliated Operator $200; Allied - $500; International - $250; State/Regional - $750; Participating Operator - $1,000 and Participating Pilot - $380 (Participating, not members of a state or regional association). The approximate 10% dues increase was the first since 2008. Approximately 140 new members joined the Association between September 24, 2011 and January 30, 2012.

The committee emphasized the need for more implementation of Safety Management Systems (SMS) practices.

The Research and Technology committee’s report included comments

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successfully apply one GPA rates for fungicides. Also, smaller (and designed with ag-aviation in mind) AIMMS real-time weather reporting equipment

should be available in the spring of 2012.

From the Safety/Federal Aviation Regulations committee, the board learned there were 91 ag-aviation related

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accidents in 2011 that resulted in seven fatalities. 67% of the accidents were due to human error, while all seven of the fatalities were because of human error. It is expected this is a “plateau” in accident statistics unless further measures are taken. From this, the committee emphasized the need for more implementation of Safety Management Systems (SMS) practices. This is where hazards in individual businesses are identified and addressed. Also, the revision and reissuance of Professional Operating Standards is currently being addressed by NAAA and is expected to help raise the level of safety for operators and pilots.

The committee is also attempting to compile more reliable data for the number of ag-aviation hours flown during a year. It was expressed a survey sheet distributed at PAASS programs would help accomplish this.

Also from the Safety/Federal Aviation Regulations committee,NAAREF will soon be releasing a Pilot Rescue DVD which has been produced. The DVD will be sent to all Part 137 operators, with the first one at no cost. The DVD is designed to be shown to first responders.

In closing, NAAREF was presented

with two donation checks. The New Mexico AAA had challenged all state associations to match their annual $2,000 contributions to NAAREF from years past. This year, the Illinois AAA met the challenge and donated $2,000, only to have NMAAA up the challenge with a $3,000 donation for 2012.

The meeting adjourned Saturday, February 11. The fall NAAA board of directors meeting will be held October 12-13, 2012 in Louisville, Kentucky.

The Syngenta-sponsored 2011/2012 NAAA Leadership Training Class graduates.

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in my opinion

Preparations for a new season Well, we are fast approaching spring time and the start of a new season.

In reality, for ag pilots in the south and maybe elsewhere, the season has already begun. Or, maybe it’s just a continuation of last season. As I write this In My Opinion, ag pilots in my neighborhood of North Louisiana seem to be flying all day, every day. There will be, however, a lot of new blood in our industry. I think now might be a good time to review some of the very basic principles to start these new pilots off to a safe and profitable season.

• Don’t try to emulate an ag pilot making hammer-head turns. In My Opinion, eventually the ground will rise up and smite him a fatal blow.

• Read and study the POH for whatever airplane you will be flying, and fly the airplane in accordance with that POH. • Pay close attention to wind in the neighborhood of the crop you will be working. You can spray distilled water, and if it drifts onto someone, you would be amazed at how sick they will get and how

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quick they will call a lawyer.

• Get in the habit of using all of the runway. Taxi straight out to the center of the airstrip, and then make a hard left or right so that no runway space is left behind you.

• Begin flying light and gradually work up to your maximum load.

Also you may consider flying fertilizer and seeding before you start spraying insecticide and especially herbicides.

• If you will be flying a turbine, make a takeoff check list from the POH,

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and read it aloud, especially on the first take off of the day. It is so easy to overlook just one item that could ruin your whole day. Airline pilots, military pilots, and corporate jet pilots all read the checklist, and you are every bit as much a professional as they are. Why shouldn’t you read the checklist?

Agricultural aviation is a wonderful vocation and can be a good livelihood.

• Do not listen to other rookies brag (lie) about fast turns and extra heavy loads. They are immature and unprofessional. If they are lucky, will live to outgrow this immaturity.

• Pay attention to density altitude as it increases with temperature during the day.

• Raise the flaps slowly, and don’t be too quick to reduce power to cruise when you are heavy.

• Fly your airplane in balanced,

coordinated flight all the time.

• Be courteous to everyone. After five or six days of 9-hour days, tempers and patience can grow short.

• Seek the advice of an old “salty” ag pilot who has many years and thousands of hours that you trust to steer you right when you are unsure about something, and do not be intimidated by a brash, braggart, know-it-all, showoff pilot.

• Keep your head on a swivel, look out for other airplanes, use your radio and ferry at 500.’

Agricultural aviation is a wonderful vocation and can be a good livelihood.

You should be passionately in love with it. Excuse the trite cliché, but it truly is the most fun you can have with your clothes on and you get paid for it! If you are not truly passionately in love with ag flying, then In My Opinion ag aviation is not for you. This last sentence is the very reason I always end my little dissertations with: Be safe, have fun, and make money and always in that order!

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wing and a prayer

Carlin Lawrence carlin@agairupdate.com

Running the race for Jesus Christ in our everyday life “Let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us (Hebrews 12:1). Christians should live their life to please God, with the least amount of worldly interruptions as possible. All of us have to work to

support ourselves and our family—that is commanded by God (1 Thessalonians 4:9-12, 2 Thessalonians 3:7-10). But many of the worldly things we get involved in take away from our walk with the Lord. Olympic athletes eat the right food and train constantly to stay mentally

and physically strong and they never carry any extra weight as they run their race. They wear the lightest shoes and least amount of clothing possible. They keep their mind on the earthly reward of finishing first in their race. Christians should keep their mind on the eternal

rewards that God has promised them for finishing their race (2 Corinthians 5:10).

Jesus said, “No one, having put his hand to the plow and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God” (Luke 9:62).

Paul tells Christians to run their spiritual race expecting to win over the

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temptations of Satan, the world and their sinful nature so they won’t be disqualified (1 Corinthians 9:24-27). One of the greatest dangers in living for Jesus Christ is not growing spiritually; not advancing in your knowledge of God and Jesus Christ and not praying enough.

Christians must feed and train their mind daily with spiritual food from the Bible to remind ourselves how God wants us to live our life for Him. When Christians don’t feed their mind daily with God’s Word there is a great danger of growing spiritually stagnant and falling back into a sinful lifestyle. Not increasing your knowledge of God’s way of living your life is like not keeping your flying skills sharp. In both cases there can be serious problems in the future. “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly by growing in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (Colossians 3:16, 2 Peter 3:18).

“Run the Christian race with patience.”

The race to live our life to please God is more like a marathon than a 100 meter dash—our race of faith can last for many years. Many Christians start their race with lots of enthusiasm, but after a while they lose their passion for serving the Lord and don’t see the importance of

finishing what God has called them to do. Some fall out of the race because the persecutions of the world cause them to think it’s too much trouble to finish. And still others quit the race because of the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches choke out God’s Word and they become unfruitful (Matthew 13:18-22).

Then there are those faithful Christians who continue in their race until the end and produce spiritual fruit that pleases the Lord (Matthew 13:23). “Do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises” (Hebrews 6:12).

“Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God” (Hebrews 12:2). When Jesus faced satanic powers and worldly pressures He always looked beyond the pain and suffering to the joy that was promised to Him by God—bringing many souls into heaven. Christians are living in a world that is becoming more and more antiChristian and we must look beyond the distractions and obstacles that trip us up in our earthly life. Satan, the world, and our sinful nature will attack Christians

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from every direction, but strong faith in Jesus Christ will deliver us from all these attacks (Psalm 34:19). Men and women with strong faith may fall many times, but they will always get up and start their race again (Proverbs 24:16). Paul wrote, “I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:13-14).

A well conditioned runner will sometimes get what is called “his second wind.” This enables the runner to push through the pain and weariness and running becomes much easier.

That is the way it is for a Christian

who presses through the temptations of sin, the desire for worldly fame, worldly pleasure, and worldly wealth.

This is when the Holy Spirit gives you that burst of spiritual power to see beyond the temptations and trials of our earthly life to the eternal rewards God has promised us through faith in Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit warned Paul that prison and tribulations awaited him.

But Paul said, “None of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the

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We’ve Been Doing This Business Since the Berlin Airlift While C-47s and C-54s were supplying Berlin’s two million blockaded inhabitants with the essentials for living, Mid-Continent Aircraft began supporting the ag industry. And just a sthe airlift task force tirelessly hustled to accomplish its goals, so too, does the friendly and knowledgeable staff at Mid-Continent Aircraft. We’re your authorized dealer for Thrush, Ag Cat, Cessna and Weatherly. So whether it’s ag-craft sales, service, parts or insurance, Mid-Continent will do whatever it takes to keep you flying — so your revenues can keep climbing sky high. So trust the worldwide leader in agricultural aviation. We’ve been doing this business since 1948.

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gospel of the grace of God” (Acts 20:2324). Paul depended on the power of God to take him through the problems he faced. Paul ran His spiritual race with the determination to win his race with joy.

Christians need to remember that the end result of our faith in Jesus Christ is a glorious eternal life in God’s heaven.

Paul said that the sufferings of this life are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us, because our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory (Romans 8:18, 2 Corinthians 4:17). Paul had a short visit into heaven and said he heard words which are impossible to express (2 Corinthians 12:3-4). Paul said, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing (2 Timothy 4:7-8). Are you faithfully running your race for Jesus Christ so the Lord can give you a crown of righteousness? It’s your choice!

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Trade with members of NAAA AT-802 APS Brake Disk now in stock................................ $725

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Triangle Lake pesticide exposure investigation The current controversy over forestry herbicide use in the Triangle Lake/Blachly area about 40 miles west of Eugene has been brewing now for almost ten years.

It is eerily similar to the battles waged by activists back in the late 1970’s over 2,4,5-T and 2,4-D. In fact some of the same names are still involved from that era including Carol Van Strum (author of “A Bitter Fog”), Barbara Kelly of SaveOur-ecoSystems, and Jan Wroncy. Now instead of NCAP leading the attack, it’s the Oregon Toxics Alliance (Beyond Toxics) and their ground troops lead

by Day Owen. The Forestland Dwellers and Pitchfork Rebellion activists have escalated their quest to stop the use of pesticides. Initially focused on the

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application of aerially applied forestry herbicides, some of these radicals have now broadened their mission stating, “It makes no sense to use pesticides at all…they are not necessary and should be stopped.” They’ve also distributed a “7 Point Platform” clearly outlining the key targets of their attack including Right to Farm and Forest, and Pesticide Preemption laws.

Seventeen investigations by state agency members of Pesticide Analytical Research Center (PARC) over the last ten years could not verify any claim of human health or environmental damage from herbicide drift. The dissatisfied Pitchfork Rebels then went to EPA, who in turn involved the Agency on Toxic Substances

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agairupdate.com

and Disease Registry (ATSDR).

In the spring of 2011, some of the Rebels also submitted self-collected urine samples to Dr. Dana Barr at Emory University to be analyzed for 2,4-D and Atrazine herbicides. Although verbal claims were made about the results, Dr. Barr and the residents have refused to provide any sampling or analyses details to the State for verification. Based on a “belief” that the alleged exposures were “plausible,” Oregon Health Authority (OHA), in conjunction with Region 10 U.S. EPA and the Agency on Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), began an “exposure investigation.”

OFS challenged some of the procedures and lack of security during sampling — all to no avail as OHA and ATSDR proceeded full steam ahead claiming this was an investigation not

a research project and therefore more extensive protocols were not needed.

The first phase of the exposure investigation collected 66 urine samples from residents at 38 households within 1.5 miles of recently harvested forest units in the immediate area. The urine samples were sent to the Center for Disease Control lab in Atlanta, Georgia for 2,4-D and Atrazine analyses. Samples of drinking water, soil and homegrown food products (vegetables, fruit, milk, eggs and honey) were taken at the same 38 household locations in September. The water was analyzed by DEQ for 126 pesticides/metabolites. All other samples were analyzed by ODA for eleven herbicides.

The urine sample results were mailed

by CDC to individual participants the first of December.

Analyses by ODA (at a cost of $30,000) and DEQ (at a cost of $20,000) should be finished and also communicated directly to participants

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during the month of December as well.

Although no total cost for the investigation is available, considering personnel time within OHA, ODA, DEQ, ATSDR, CDC, EPA and the Department of Forestry, plus analytical costs of three agencies, it has likely exceeded several hundred thousand dollars. ATSDR has announced that regardless of the outcome of these samples, they plan to do more urine and environmental samplings in spring 2012 both pre- and post- herbicide sprays.

OFS thanks the Governor’s Natural Resource Policy Advisor Richard Whitman

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agairupdate.com

CDC urine analyses letters bring good news Although a comprehensive compilation of all 66 urine test results by OHA and ATSDR will not be competed until early 2012, residents that spoke to OFS said they received some good news from CDC in early December. The CDC letters stated, “Atrazine and its breakdown products were not detected in your urine sample, indicating there is no evidence that you were exposed to atrazine at the time of testing.” The letter added, “Your test result for 2,4-D was within the typical range of exposure to the chemical, when compared to the US population as a whole. This concentration is below a level that would be expected to cause adverse health

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news for residents who wanted to know if they were unknowingly being exposed to pesticides at potentially harmful levels. The answer is clearly “no you are not.” The extremists at Beyond Toxics, Forestland Dwellers and the Pitchfork Rebellion, however, have already taken the unrealistic posture that “any” detectable level is unacceptable - regardless of peerreviewed science by independent, expert toxicologists to the contrary.

Source: Oregonians for Food & Shelter’s OFS Review

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effects” (emphases added). In fact, based on information in a peer-reviewed science publication on biomonitoring data and risk assessment (that included Dr. Barr), even those residents who had recently applied herbicides themselves, the trace levels detected in their urine would be thousands of times below the chronic “no adverse effect level” for humans. As noted above, results from ODA and DEQ on water and the environmental and food samples should be completed and communicated some time in December via a second individual letter. The CDC results should definitely be reassuring

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Washington Post converts to conservation?

by Dennis T. Avery CHURCHVILLE, VA—For 25 years, the Washington Post has praised organic foods—while I warned that low-yield organic farming posed a threat to the world’s wildlife. I estimated that Norman Borlaug’s Green Revolution not only saved billions of people from starvation, but at the same time saved seven million square miles of wildlife habitat that would otherwise have been plowed down for more low-yielding crops. Seven million square miles is the land area of South America. That’s “high-yield conservation.”

I was thus amazed when a December 4th Washington Post editorial recommended more highyield farming! The Washington Post noted in “Feeding the Future” that

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human numbers may rise as high as 10 billion before they level off about 2050. “The smart response,” said the Washington Post, “is to improve how humans produce food by applying ever-more-efficient agricultural techniques more widely.” The paper even prodded the environmental movement for opposing “biotechnology, another important tool for efficiency…which enhances the ancient practice of artificial genetic selections and could make crops more productive and more resistant to drought and bad weather.” The editorial also chided the European Union, where “unfounded opposition [to biotechnology] is particularly extreme… blocking just the sort of breakthroughs environmentalists and world poverty advocates should encourage.”

The Washington Post’s change of heart is coming at the crucial moment.

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The Washington Post’s change of heart is coming at the crucial moment.

Yes, the world’s seven- billionth person has just been born, somewhere. But the Washington Post now seems to realize that birth rates in the poor countries have come about 80 percent of the way to stability since 1960.

Birth rates in the First World are already well below the replacement rate of 2.1 births. The lower birth rates mirror the planet’s declining death rates and human numbers are about to shift from slow increase to slow decrease.

This means the world’s current

wildlife habitat could mostly be saved with one last major burst of higher-yield farming technology.

We’ll need to double world food output in just 40 years—but for the last time! Global food demand will stabilize, then decline. The Reverend Thomas Malthus’ 19th-century misunderstanding of population dynamics can then finally be put to rest.

The food production problem is that we’re farming just about all of the planet’s high-quality land—and using the available high-yield technologies on most of it: fertilizer, pesticides, irrigation, improved seeds. The one big high-yield farming technology we haven’t fully exploited is biotechnology.

In fact, the EU has not only opposed biotech for its own markets, but has threatened the Third World countries with import bans if they plant biotech seeds to feed their own people. The EU has “helped” poor countries install onerous regulations to ensure that new biotech breakthroughs won’t get into farmers’ fields until decades have passed, if ever. “Golden rice” can save millions of poor children in rice-eating culture from going blind and both

mothers and children dying of severe Vitamin A deficiency. It was discovered 20 years ago, and hasn’t yet been allowed to be planted in a farmer’s field!

The European Union thinks this blockade of biotech is very clever.

However, they also thought it was very clever to let Greece, Italy and Spain overspend their budgets for decades, while Germany and France covered the debts. Now the differences are too great to paper over. We, and perhaps even the Washington Post, understand more fully now that the EU’s judgment on long-term issues is highly questionable—and in the case of the third world, despicable.

Dennis T. Avery, a senior fellow for the Hudson Institute in Washington, D.C., is an environmental economist.

He was formerly a senior analyst for the Department of State. He is coauthor, with S. Fred Singer of Unstoppable Global Warming Every 1500 Years. Readers may write to him at PO Box 202 Churchville, VA 2442; email to cgfi@hughes.net or visit us at www.cgfi.org

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Use cash flow to prepare your financial plan With the close of the 2011 comes the challenge of preparing a plan for success in upcoming years. With all the political and financial uncertainty, this year could be a critical year for many businesses.

Developing a sound financial plan for your business requires recognizing what you can control and projecting cash flow.

The key to survival is meeting the cash flow requirements of your business. For the commercial aircraft operator, this means evaluating the financials of each aircraft in the operation. Concentrate on your cash flow. Prepare budgets and financial plans for each aircraft in your fleet. Review each aircraft’s expenses over the last several years and identify

any large upcoming cash requirements (aircraft improvements, overhauls, special inspections, etc.). Project the normal annual fixed expenses as well as the hourly operating expenses. Evaluate the total revenue, annual utilization, and hourly revenue rate of each aircraft.

It is important to know exactly how you determine the revenue collected. Does the revenue collected exceed all the cost involved in producing the revenue?

Don’t forget to count deadhead or other required movements of the aircraft. Increases in fuel cost might be a significant item in 2012. Including a fuel surcharge in your plan could make the difference between profit and loss.

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expenses associated with fixed and variable operating costs.

Depreciation is a non-cash expense but it still must be considered. There are two types of depreciation: 1) depreciation for tax purposes, 2) real depreciation. It is best to make sure you consider the real depreciation of your aircraft when evaluating the final exit from the aircraft;

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domestic advertiser index A.E.R.O. (APS).................................................1B Aero Engines, Inc........................................11B AeroFlow, Inc.............................................. 20B Ag Air Turbines, Inc................................... 29B Agrinautics.................................................. 30B AgriSmart Information Systems.........6, 21B AgSync...........................................................27B Air Repair.....................................................19B Air South Insurance....................................14B Air Tech Coatings Inc. ............................. 29B Airplane Services....................................... 26B Arctic Air Cooler.........................................14B Auger Dan’s Trucks......................................1B BASF................................................................. 2B Blue Stripe Distributing............................ 30B Bright Portal Resources............................ 29B Bruces Flying Service.................................17B Cascade Aircraft Conversions.................18B Central Florida Ag Aero........................... 28B Chester Roberts Supply Co..................... 23B Compton’s Flying Service..........................16B CP Products..................................................11B Curtis Dyna-Fog Ltd.................................. 22B Dallas Airmotive........................................ 26B Davidson Solid Rock Ins........................... 30B Eagle Vistas LLC.........................................24B Electrode Aviation......................................18B Electronics International.......................... 32B Falcon Insurance Agency, Inc. ................13B Farm Air Inc.................................................12B Flight Grip, LLC...........................................31B Flying Tigers Aviation................................16B Garrco Products, Inc..................................17B Hardy Aviation Ins Inc. ........................... 25B HeliGPS.........................................................10B Joe Vaughn Spraying Inc. ........................31B Kimmel Insurance Agency........................27B Kugler.............................................................. 8B Lane Aviation..................................... 15B, 28B Mid-Continent............................................ 20B Mike Aircraft Shop.......................................7B Millennium Enterprises Inc.......................14B NAAA.............................................................. 5B NorthStar Aviation.......................................4B OctaFlex....................................................... 20B PARMA............................................................ 7B Prime Turbines.............................................13B Professional Insurance Management....19B PropWorks Propeller Systems, Inc...........31B RT Turbines Inc............................................21B Reabe Spraying Service............................ 25B RKJ Enterprises........................................... 22B Robert McCurdy.........................................16B S & T Aircraft Accessories, Inc................31B Sanag........................................................... 28B Serv-Aero Engineering, Inc.......................31B Southeastern Aircraft............................... 22B Southwest Airmotive................................. 25B Tennessee Aircraft Co Inc........................17B Trace Engines...............................................24B Turbine Aircraft Services...........................27B Turbines, Inc................................................... 9B USAg Recycling Inc................................... 26B Valley Air Crafts............................................9B Wirenoodle.................................................. 20B Zee Systems.................................................10B

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agairupdate.com

however it is important to consider the tax depreciation when calculating annual cash flow. Generally, the aircraft will sell for a value greater than its depreciated book value.

This requires paying taxes on any gain realized from the sale of the aircraft. If the aircraft is traded, the payment of taxes on the gain is deferred to the replacement aircraft by reducing the tax basis in the purchased aircraft using a like-kind exchange. Eventually, the taxes will be paid on any gain realized from a sale price greater than the depreciated book value. Until these taxes are paid, the amount of taxes owed can be viewed as an interest free government loan. Depreciation might make a difference in your decision to keep or replace a current aircraft after evaluating the after-tax cash flow of your current aircraft versus the replacement of the current aircraft with a new aircraft. It’s important to check with your tax counsel and advisor to determine how you might benefit from current depreciation laws and whether bonus depreciation is available.

Congress has not yet acted on the bonus depreciation for 2012. Check both Federal and State laws before making

your final decision.

“Procrastination is the grave in which opportunity is buried.” Concentrate on your business and plan your success by knowing your cash flow and what must be changed to keep a profitable operation.

Having the correct tools to reduce your planning time is something you should consider. The AircraftCostAnalysis program can be used to prepare precise annual budgets and evaluate the after-tax cash flow of many different scenarios. For sample reports and additional information, go to www.AircraftCostAnalysis. com.

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Composite formulation aids banana applications - Argentine technology expands globally Historically, the use of oil while attempting control of wide-spread black sigatoka disease has proved difficult and ineffective in the cultivation of bananas.

While in Ecuador recently, SpeedAgro had the opportunity to demonstrate the use of an adjuvant as a control and cost effective alternative.

Protecting the environmental, human health issues, certain international trade barriers, handling and storage of chemicals are all implications associated with large volume application rates. This makes the role of the adjuvant more and more important.

It is clear that the main benefits of using an adjuvant is to reduce the evaporation of the product and enhance the penetration of systemic fungicides on the leaves. It is also indisputable that using large application rates generate

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phytotoxicity and the potential for human health risk.

Over the past four years SpeedAgro, with a strong investment in research and development, has focused on developing their NG SpeedWet compound in order to replace the use of agricultural oil with successful results.

Building on this wealth of information, in recent months SpeedAgro has actively

participated in two events specifically for banana cultivation, both of international significance, in order to disseminate the experiences and promote the research in banana producing countries.

The first event was at the Banana Summit (CMB), held in Guayaquil from 24 to 26 October. Source photo: http:// www.expoplaza.ec/ The presentation of the test results conducted in Ecuador

created excitement in the audience, especially those from other countries such as Costa Rica and the Dominican Republic, when comparing the performance of NG SpeedWet with the cost of oil in their countries, were very enthusiastic about the project. The vast majority of the audience went to the SpeedAgro booth to request samples to conduct their own tests.

According to Washington Coka, agronomist and SpeedAgro Ecuadorian representative, has had one of the best experiences in his 20-year career using this product.

The other event was the Third International Seminar on Black Sigatoka, Roots and Nematodes in Banana and Plantain. Representatives from over 30 countries participated in this meeting held in Panama, November

Simplex Manufacturing changes name to Simplex Aerospace

29 to December 2. The appearance of black sigatoka in Panama in late 2003 caused about 90% of the losses in the main banana and plantain plantations, prompting officials to initiate control to prevent the spread of the fungus. Again, the presentation of NG SpeedWet generated great interest in this new technology, which undoubtedly will forever change the application of fungicides for chemical control of black sigatoka on bananas.

Dallas-Ft.Worth, TX—Simplex Manufacturing Co., the world’s leading supplier of helicopter aerial application equipment, announced that it has changed the company name to Simplex Aerospace. Simplex engineers, certifies, and manufactures helicopter systems for the agriculture, energy, oil spill response and firefighting markets.

“We changed the name to more accurately reflect the nature of our company’s aviation business, products and strategic direction and in support of our expansion of product offerings into other areas of the aerospace industry” says Mark Zimmerman, President and CEO. A clear example of the company’s new direction is the recent development and certification of electric power line and wind turbine cleaning and de-icing systems for the Eurocopter AS350 and Bell 407. These products are part of the company’s expansion into new aerospace market segments through the creation of

innovative solutions to industry needs.

“In addition to the rotorcraft industry, there are a number of underserved fixed wing market niches the company is pursuing, and the name change is consistent with our growth and new market expansion activities” explained Larry Lichtenberger, Vice President of Sales & Marketing.

Founded in 1946, Simplex ( www. simplexmfg.com ) has built a reputation as the leader in design, manufacturing, and certification of aerial application systems and mission equipment for helicopters. Simplex maintains its industry leadership by incorporating the latest technology in design and manufacturing systems from high-strength, low-weight composite materials to produce reliable and cost-effective systems for firefighting, agriculture, utilities maintenance and other aerial applications.

For more information, contact: Larry Lichtenberger, 503-257-3511.

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NAAA is heading back to Savannah for its annual convention and exposition!

Although the 2012 convention is several months away, it’s never too early to book your stay in Savannah. Room blocks are now open at NAAA’s three main hotels: the Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa, the Hyatt Regency Savannah and Marriott Savannah Riverfront. The Westin is located across the Savannah River on the same side as the convention center; the Hyatt and Marriott are city side where Savannah’s shops, restaurants and attractions are.

Near-continuous ferry service will be available to transport attendees from one side of the river to the other.

Visit Savannah, the city’s convention and visitors bureau, has established a dedicated website for attendees

to book their stay at any of NAAA’s hotels. Through this website you can book, modify or cancel your hotel reservations at any time and receive updated information about NAAA’s 2012 convention. If you have a hotel preference, we strongly suggest you reserve your room(s) early. NAAA’s host hotels sold out quickly in 2010. You can get started by logging onto NAAA’s official hotel registration website.

Standard rooms are $114/night + tax at all three hotels.

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hands-on flying

Tracy Thurman thurmantracyt@yahoo.com

Finding a road After the loss of our daughter, I took some time off work, but my feet get awful tired of being on the ground.

Being out of the airplane for an extended period of time just isn’t good for my disposition. I decided it was time to fly.

I was sitting in the airplane when the stick wiggled on its own. I looked out and around and saw the loader shaking the aileron up and down. He raised his arms in a questioning gesture. The load hose had been removed and was lying coiled next to the mix tank. He was wondering why I was still setting there.

My mind had drifted away, I was looking out over the nose of the airplane and into the evening sky

disconnected from the task at hand.

Not a good place for a pilot to be. I realized it was time to re-focus. I shook it off, shrugged away the meandering thoughts and directed my concentration on being a pilot of a very expensive and powerful flying machine.

I shoved the prop lever forward, double checked my flaps, eased in the power and roared down the runway. It was a light load, just two hundred or so gallons, the airplane hardly knew it was there. The tail came up easy; I lifted the old bird into ground effect and held it there. Soaking up the acceleration as the runway and negative emotions fell behind me. I pitched the airplane up into a left turn, a little more aggressive

than was necessary but well within safe limits. A takeoff procedure I call the “Thrush rush.”

Power, prop, and flaps set, climb out and level off. I moved the stick a little left and right rocking the airplane slowly, feeling the lift and the pressure of the control surfaces. As the ground fell away, I scanned the instruments and the area around me. Everything was as it should be, all in the green and clear as a bell.

I realized that I was right where I was supposed to be. I finally said a little prayer of thanks after so many with nothing but questions. The stick felt good in my hand, the cockpit reeked of Jet A with a hint of chemical, not

a pleasant smell, but a familiar one.

The sun shone on the back side of the propeller revealing a silver disc that chewed through the air ahead of me.

For weeks I had been questioning a lot of things. I had been doubting and angry, depressed and frustrated. All natural human emotions I suppose.

I even questioned my place in my profession. I was wondering if I had the right to continue to pursue a career that held substantial more risk than others. Considering what my wife and family had already been through, what would happen if the unthinkable was to happen to me?

Handling grief and loss is different for everyone. There are no rules or

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guidelines. Sometimes a guy just has to get back in the saddle and be who he is and appreciate his blessings instead of dwelling on his losses.

I was right where I should have never been and things were starting to look pretty bleak.

I got lost one time in the mountains of New Mexico under a rapidly falling ceiling. The clouds pushed me down ever lower enveloping the peaks around me and reducing visibility to near nothing. Options were fading into the haze quickly. I was right where I should have never been and things were starting to look pretty bleak.

Flying toward a small patch of light, I stumbled across a road and decided to try and follow it out. I hunkered down over it until I could read the signs and focused on just flying the airplane. I was nearing the decision to land on the road when I saw a sign that read “I-40

ahead”. I knew the highway well and that it descended through the pass into Albuquerque and the valley beyond.

Hope flickered brightly and soon the sky began to open up. I flew out of those mountains breathing deeply and gratefully, climbed into the sunshine and thanked the Man upstairs for delivering me safely from what could have been a mighty grim situation.

The loss of a loved one can cause a person to question where his place is in the world. Suddenly everything you know is turned upside down and your internal gyro gets spun off its axis. It’s like being lost in the mountains with a darkening gray sky pressing you down.

There are no options but to continue on, avoid the snags and rocks, find a little light and fly toward it and hope for a road sign that will show you the way out.

Ronald Reagan once said; “The best thing for the inside of a man is the outside of a horse.” I’m sure there is an adaptation to that quote that would apply to pilots and airplanes.

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High tech in Ecuador

by Bill Lavender ECUADOR — A relatively small South American country, Ecuador is home to several large ag-operations. Primarily, these operations treat bananas, sugar cane, cocoa and rice. Many use the Simon Bolivar International Airport in Guayaquil (GYE) as their home base for their administrative and maintenance

offices. The majority of spraying operations are made from remote strips located along the western side of the country, aligning from the north in the Valencia area to the south in the area of Pasaje. During a recent visit to Ecuador, AgAir Update met with several Ecuadorian aerial spraying companies, one of which was AIFA Ecuador.

One of AIFA’s major operations, Estrella, is based about 75 miles north of Guayaquil. From this paved airstrip, using two AT-402s, one AT-502 and two C-188s, AIFA treats 12,000 hectares (30,000 acres) of bananas. Also, competitors AEROVIC and APACSA share this airstrip with AIFA.

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AIFA Ecuador was founded in 1986 by Fernando Torres. The company is family owned and operated by Mr. Torres and his five sons. It is actively managed by two of the sons, Juan Carlos and Fernando, Jr. The company’s office complex is based in Samborondon, a suburb of Guayaquil, while its aircraft maintenance shop and agricultural aviation school are based at the Guayaquil (GYE) airport. Spraying operations are conducted from five locations in Ecuador The aircraft fleet for AIFA consists of eight C-188 turbocharged Ag-Husky’s, two AT-402s with PT6A-15AG engines, five AT-502s with PT6A-34AG engines, a dual cockpit 510 Thrush with a PT6A-34AG engine and a Piper Seneca that is used to commute between the operations. The company employees 15 pilots. It expects the delivery of a new AT-502 in 2012.

The dual cockpit 510 Thrush is also used for training AIFA and other Ecuadorian ag-pilots. The demand for

All Ecuadorian banana plantations are irrigated. Various methods to irrigate are used; overhead water heads, drip and water heads under the canopy. new ag-pilots ranges from five to eight a year due to attrition and the increase in spraying. Because of this need for trained ag-pilots, AIFA has formed a new school, “Escuela de Aviacion Agricola Captain Carlos Sangster”. The school is named for the first AIFA pilot; now deceased.

An applicate to the school must already have a Commercial Pilot’s License and logged 350-500 hours total time. Training begins with about 50 hours in a Super Cub outfitted with a Del Norte GPS unit. During these training hours, the pilot becomes proficient in a tailwheel aircraft, GPS operations and general spraying procedures. Once the pilot completes

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his training in the Super Cub, he flies the C-188 Ag Husky for about 25 hours to improve the skills he learned in the Super Cub. The student also receives 10-15 hours of instruction in the dual cockpit 510 Thrush for his turbine transition training.

AIFA Thrush instructors were trained

by Thrush Aircraft. Terry Humphrey represented the Thrush factory and travelled to Guayaquil to train the AIFA instructors.

In a six-month period, the students

will have flown 85-90 hours towards becoming an ag-pilot. In the fall of 2011, the first student of “Escuela de Aviacion Agricola Captain Carlos Sangster” graduated and was hired by AIFA to fly an Ag Husky. The school began with four students and there is a waiting list of pilots to start training as more students graduate.

AIFA’s spraying operations are typical of banana spraying operators. Each of the five airstrips employs a chief pilot, with ninety percent of the applications

Juan Carlos Torres points to one of the 36 security cameras in place at AIFA’s seven locations. These cameras are monitored 24/7 from the main office in Samborondon and have greatly reduced theft. 

over banana plantations. However, sugar cane, cacao and rice are also treated. In Ecuador, only black sigatoka is present.

Yellow sigatoka has been found, but was eliminated; it was replaced by the more aggressive black strain of the disease.

If black sigatoka is not treated, the banana leaves will develop black spots and the ripening rate of the banana is affected. This faster ripening prevents the banana from reaching foreign marketplaces. The increase in disease pressure has required AIFA to increase

(L-R) Editor Bill Lavender, Grant Lane - Lane Aviation, Carlos Falconi - Estrella base manager, Captain Marcos Paucar - Seneca pilot and Juan Carlos Torres - AIFA General Manager

its application rates from 12 l/ha (1.2 GPA) to 18 l/ha (1.8 GPA), using Micronair AU5000 atomizers. A typical atomizer set up on a 502 is twelve units; eight units are used on the Ag Husky. Each aircraft has a Hemisphere GPS unit with an Intelliflow flow and Spray-off control. AIFA is updating its fleet of aircraft to the larger and more productive AT-502 and in order to gain more efficiency in the control of the black sigatoka.

AIFA treats approximated 20% of the marketplace and it’s the leader in Ecuador for the integral control services of black sigatoka. This year, AIFA used a systemic chemical to control black sigatoka. However, fungicides are rotated annually to help reduce the risk of resistance. A small amount of crop oil is added to each mix to minimize evaporation and enhance adhesion.

The amount of oil used is based on the chemical and the ambient air temperature. AIFA is a complete control service company for black sigatoka on bananas. This includes its company AGRITOP, for agriculture technical support.

As part of its services to its growers, AIFA, along with AGRITOP, provide

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28 agronomists to monitor the banana plantations. AIFA guarantees its applications and provides the monitoring as part of the application cost.

AIFA agronomists use PDAs to record their findings while in the field. The company is in the process of converting to smart phones so information can be

relayed to the base in real time. AIFA has developed agriculture software called SITI® (Sistema de Informacion y Technologias Integradas) that interfaces with Google Earth, its own sigatoka monitoring software, Fitosan, and its ERP. The customer can use it at www. aifasa.com. Growers are able to access application data, including the application map, over the Internet with SITI®. Using SITI®, AIFA aircraft are outfitted with wi-fi to download spray applications to the SITI® server. From this data, AIFA pilots have an average track error of 0.53 meters, while up

to three meters are acceptable. The average application speed is 132 MPH. AIFA is a stellar Ecuadorian aerial spraying company. It offers complete, integrated agricultural services for its growers. It has a long, 25-year history of spraying in Ecuador with an almost perfect application record.

SITI® allows to the customer to monitor and administer the samples capture process. Locations are indexed for the efficient control of black sigatoka

Edwin Fabiano Jaramillo - the first graduate from “Escuela de Aviacion Agricola Captain Carlos Sangster” on the job at Estrella flying an Ag Husky with Captain Manuel Arrata instructor.

Aerial views using SITI® of the aircraft passes after an application.

The blue lines represent the perimeter of the banana plantation and the white lines indicate the mix application process. This information is available on line as a SITI® report for the customer.

SITI® allows checking the disease state of black sigatoka so as to take preventive measures.

East of the Galapagos Islands,south of Colombia, north of Peru and bordered on the west by the Pacific Ocean, Ecuador is 110,000 square miles (the size of Great Britain) with a population of 15 million.

According to the Ecuadorian agricultural aviation association, ADENA, its vice president Juan Carlos Torres of AIFA states there are approximately 20 agricultural aviation companies in Ecuador. In 2007, there were 19 turbine-powered and 47 piston-powered ag-aircraft for a total of 66, flown by 65 pilots and maintained by 74 mechanics.

This compares to 2010 with 38 turbinepowered and 52 piston-powered aircraft for a total of 90 flown by 62 pilots and maintained by 80 mechanics.

Bulk Jet-A in September 2011 cost $1.30 USD per gallon, while bulk Av-Fuel was $3.20 USD per gallon. Automotive gas was about $1.50 USD a gallon.

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Stearman C-3B Submitted by Danny Kubecka, Edna, TX A Stearman C-3B in 1956. This aircraft dates from the 1920s and by 1966, there were only four left on the USCAR. The aircraft in the background are PT17 Stearmans.

Produced in 1928, the pictured aircraft was originally built as an C-3B, powered by a 200 hp Wright J-5 nine-cylinder radial. On October 7 of the same year, it was re-engined with a Comet 7 sevencylinder radial and became a C-3L, registered as NX6438. It is shown here as a crop duster, and the aircraft is

still registered as of this day, although designated as a C-3B. The Stearman C3B was the first aircraft to roll off the Stearman line in Wichita in 1927. The open-cockpit mail plane helped cement Lloyd Stearman’s reputation as one of the world’s leading aeronautical engineers. While delivering a C3 on Jan. 15, 1928, Stearman chief test pilot, Fred Hoyt, bailed out over Idaho and froze to death in a blizzard. About 136 Stearman C3Bs, powered by 200-horsepower Wright J-5 engines, were built between 1927 and 1929 in Wichita. In 1929, Stearman Aircraft was bought by the company that later became Boeing.

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classified ads ag-cat G164-C Model King Cat, firewall forward conversion includes R1820-71 engine and Hamilton Standard propeller Model 33D50-119. Engine mount cowling,oil cooler and plumbing, instrument panel also included. For more details contact Matt at Avag Inc. 530-882-4286 (0 3 -12) G164B Model Ag Cat $97,500 w/ 1340 P&W Engine 7800 TT, 240hr Engine/Prop Covington OH, Runs EXCELLENT. Why not add a Turbo Cat kit? Call for pricing of Turbo Cat kit. Great opportunity to get an excellent running Ag Cat - TURBINE CONVERSIONS CALL 616-837-9428 www. turbineconversions.com (12-12)

PRICE REDUCED 1978 G 164 C SN 19 C. Rebuilt to better than new condition. AF TT 4090 Garrett super 1 turbine TSC 174 CSC 44 by AG AIR Turbines. Spray ready, Electronics International Digital Engine Display. This aircraft flies excellent and has not been worked since rebuild.

Everything on this aircraft has been gone through including 500 gallon hopper refurbishment. - SKY TRACTOR SUPPLY, Broker - located Hillsboro, ND USA Telephone: 800-437-5319, 701-636-5880 Fax: 701-636-5881 ( t f n) J & C Enterprises Aviation Inc. has the remnants of one A-model Cat with 4 decent wing cores and a center section.

Can send pictures. Call Sid or Jerry 800-542-8565 or emial jcaviation@pldi.net At fn

1967 G-164A Ag-Cat 9000TT, 475 SMOHE, 650 SMOHP, AG-NAV2, smoker, flagger, B model canopy, AFS check valves with Davidon Tri-Set’s, spreader included. $86,000 Please email george@cropjet.com or Call 208-358-1802 (03-12)

Order your DeSpain Pen and Ink Drawing of the B Model Ag Cat today. $60.00 plus S&H. Call 478-987-2250 or order online at agairupdate.com Order your DeSpain Pen and Ink Drawing of the Turbine Ag Cat today. $60.00 plus S&H. Call 478-987-2250 or order online at agairupdate.com

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We will build your dream AgCat from the ground up. Closest thing to a new AgCat out there. Call Hershey Flying Service at 308-368-5556 and ask for a quote.

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A+ 600 Tower/Writer w/1200 SMOH AF&E&P best of the Rosie O’Gradys, ........................................................................$35K. A+ 600, 300 gal DAF Tland Conb, 194SMOHE, 419 SOH Hyrda-Prop, SatLoc Lite, Fresh AAI LIC., .$125K A+600, 335 gal DAF TLand Sprayer0 SMOHE&P&AF 80 fuel, TST, “B”Cockpit/Canopy, Custom Panel, Airstar GPS, NEW hopper/panels/SSbelly, simply immaculate ground-up rest oration...............................................................$175K B+600 (AN2) 350 gal DAF Tland Conb,1114 SMOHE. OHC 23D40/7005A17 prop, AACP/AAI rebuilt, 80 fuel, TST, Hvy Gear, Big Tires, M-3 StaLoc, CropHawk, Beautiful ..........$155K SB-Walter-FatCat, 1150-SMOH AF&E&P, hiwings, TST, HVY GSW, M-3 GPS, A41” TLand Spra 515 Hopper, 125 fuel, Super Value..........................................$295K C182B Skylane 3300 TTA, 100 SMOHE & P, S-TEC auto pilot, Nice Trade for AgCat.............................................................$74K B450 300 gal DAF GAAC Comb., 1046 SMOHE, 0 IranP, ACP/ AAI rebuilt, 80 fuel, TST, Beautiful...................................$129K AmAg 870-886-2418 (2489F) agcat@bscn.com AmAg 870886-2418 (2489F) agcat@bscn.com t f n

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93 AT-502 7700hrs airframe,engine, prop. 0 smoh on prop, lt. ovhl engine 3/08 1260 hrs. M3/ flow control, afs, cp flat fans, vg’s, single point fuel, a/c, smoker, lane fan, brake, clean northern airplane 806-200-4189 (0 3 -12) 2009 AT-602 1820 TTAF & E-60 smoker, elec. brake gr adj., cp’s 10” hydraulic gate, Fresh HSI, fresh annual. $875,000 t f n

1998 AT-602 -60 8610 TTAF/E. Wings done winter 2009 Fresh paint dec 2010, 10 hrs on fresh hot, Wingman, M3 flow control, 70 cp flat fan nozzles, 10 vane spreader, $650,000 Gary Flying MS Paul 662-347-1063 (0 3 -12) 2005 AT-802A-67, 3400 TT, 400 SHOT, 10” hydro gate w/ Del Norte controller, Satloc M-3 touch screen, wingman, RAM AIR, single pt fuel, 700 hrs since landing gear. 875,000 OBO brenthampton79@yahoo.com Call 573-620-1815 ( 03 -12) ’98 Air Tractor 602, N5192T, 5615. TT A/F, -60AG 607.1 SHOT, M3 w/ Big Screen, Flow Control, Hopper Rinse, A/C, Smoker, Wingman, Lane 4 Blade, HD Electric Brakes, Drop Booms, CP Nozzles. Annual due February 2012. Darryl 870-572-9011 (03-12)

1997 AT-802A, PT6A-65AG, Annual due: 3-1-12 Spar cap replacement due at TTA of 8000.0 (in 1294.6 hours), Prop overhauled 11-8-10 with factory new blades, All new landing gear installed at 6115.5 (589.9 hours ago), A/C, Heater, CP nozzles, Swathmaster spreader, “GPS” instrument panel, Intellistar GPS, Intelliflow flow control, 38” gate, Wingman Ram air inlet, Fast Start, Offset engine mount Garmin SL40.

Darryl 870-572-9011 (0 3 -12)

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Avionics: King KMA 24 Audio Panel King KY196 Comm Radio King KNS80 Nav/RNAV/DME Receiver Northstar M3 GPS System STec 55 Autopilot BF Goodrich Stormscope

Engine Times: LH Engine: 550 Hrs SMOH Cargo Door; 8 passenger seats

RH Engine: 1140 Hrs SMOH

Price: $125,000.00 New Price: $95,000.00

Will trade for Ag Cat B Plus Contact us @ 772-468-9292 Fax: 772-468-9297 email: turbgrp@aol.com

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Tel: 662-895-4337 • Fax: 662-895-4338 Toll Free: 866-PROTANK (776-8265) www.protankms.com

1996 AT-502B Air Tractor, PT6A-34AG (750hp), 8,400 horas tiempo total desde nuevo. “0” horas desde sección caliente y reparación de hélice. Alas renovadas en fabrica con nuevas vigas. Satloc M3, radio comunicador, transponder, abanico variable y freno eléctrico “Lane”.

Boquillas CP. $435,000 Sun Valley Dusting, 956-399-5323, Fax 956-399-2320 t f n 1980 AT- 301 8960TT Super 6 engine, 902 TT hydromatic prop Tall Tail, all metal control surfaces, aileron servos, Satloc lite, fresh annual with sale, $115,000 559-686-7401 or email valleyaircraft@clearwire.net (0 4 -12)

AT-401B: Power and payload at the right price. Step up to a highly productive, low maintenance piston engine ag plane for a price that makes solid business sense. The economical 400-gallon capacity AT-401B has a pistonengine price tag, plus all the reliability, durability, safety features and flying ease that make Air Tractor the industry leader. For qualified buyers, Wells Fargo has attractive and flexible terms available. Call your Air Tractor dealer.

AT-502B: More performance; more profit potential. With Air Tractor’s AT-502B there’s plenty of power and a big, 500gallon payload to please both pilot and operator. The Pratt & Whitney PT6A-34AG turbine engine delivers efficient and effective performance that shortens ferry times and reduces takeoffs and landings. Since 1987 the AT-502 series has set the standard as the industry’s most popular ag plane.

You can own one with attractive financing options from Wells Fargo. Talk to your Air Tractor dealer.

TFN

1974 Cessna Ag Truck 4500 TTAF 1400 TTSM litestar GPS super booms flat fan nozzles annual due May 2012, asking $70,000 call 780-841-1483 Cell or 780-928-4233 (03-12)

cessna 1977 Cessna 150, 3,100 Horas desde nuevo, “0” horas desde reparación mayor – motor. GPS, Nav-Com, Transponder w/encoder. Recién pintado. $35,000 Sun Valley Dusting, 956-399-5323, Fax 956-399-2320 tfn

Order your DeSpain Pen and Ink Drawing of the Turbine AT-402 today. $60.00 plus S&H. Call 478-987-2250 or order online at agairupdate.com 2012 AIR TRACTORS, ALL MODELS, FALL DELIVERIES $CALL$ 2013 AIR TRACTORS , RESERVIE YOUR POSITION NOW $CALL$ 2012 AT-602, -60AG OR -65AG, SPEC’D TO ORDER, APRIL DELIVERY $CALL$ 2009 AT-802A, 1700 TTAF&E, -65AG, HYD GATE, DEL NORTE W/FLOW, LOAD HAWG $1,100.000.00 Lane Aviation 888-995-LANE 281-342-5451 or FAX: 281232-5401. tfn t f n

AT-402B: Go turbo. The AT-402B, with the time-proven Pratt & Whitney PT6A-15AG turbine engine, offers impressive climb rates and overall performance. The AT-402B’s light handling characteristics help reduce pilot fatigue – while delivering the payload, speed and productivity that helps create profits. Visit your Air Tractor dealer and learn how Wells Fargo’s financing options for qualified buyers make owning an Air Tractor more affordable than you might think. T F N 2012 AIR TRACTOR AT-502B, PT6A-34AG, Nuevo, para entrega en Julio de 2012. Equipado con freno eléctrico y abanico variable “Lane”, sistema de riego de dos pulgadas con 44 boquillas, aire condicionado, horizonte artificial, radio comunicador Garmin, certificado de aeronavigabilidad de exportación. $815,000.00 Sun Valley Dusting, 956-399-5323, Fax 956-399-2320 tfn

AT-504: Learn and earn. With side-by-side cockpit seating and 485-gallon capacity, the AT-504 is a great way to train new ag pilots and earn while they learn. Powered by the Pratt & Whitney PT6A-34AG turbine engine, you’ll get working speeds and performance like the tried and true AT-502B. And when the training day is done, you’ll see that it was productive workday, too. Wells Fargo financing for qualified buyers is available; just visit with your Air Tractor dealer. T F N

Will trade nice 1972 Super Viking for flying Ag Truck or Pawnee. Will consider projects. 1-800-542-8565 A t f n WE have the largest NEW inventory of Cessna 188 AG Truck & Ag Wagon parts in the USA. Parting out many other air crafts as well. J & C Enterprises Aviatiion INC 800-542-8565 or Email Sid or Jerry at jcaviation@pldi.net Atfn Cessna 337, several units, very low flight hours, perfect state, extremely careful maintenance, fully equipped, long range tanks, fully IFR, contact for prices and specs. info@ airtractoreurope.com, +34667102184 t f n

1969 Cessna 188 Ag Wagon, 2500 TT, 55 SMOH, Motor da caixa Continental, Satloc Lite, duas pares de barras inox (CP & rotativos), Spreader e mais. Muito bem conservado e arrumado Pronto para trabalhar.

R$280.000,00 Homoligado em Brasil em 2005, Localisado em Goias thomas.morley@comcast.net (0 3 -12)

dromader Left and right M-18 wings 1500 hrs TT, new spare cap and fitting right wing, left wing checks ok with ailerons and flaps.

New M-18 prop for sale, good used M-18 full blades, various other M-18 parts. For Sale or Trade? Call 573-246-3216 day, 573-481-0474 evening (0 3 -12)

J & C enterprises Aviation Inc. Wants to buy your Cessna aircraft, New & Used part of any kind. Call Jerry 800-5428565 or email jcaviation@pldi.net At fn Cessna airframe parts, Continental and Lycoming engine parts, and a few spray system parts, new surplus, big discounts! Please have part numbers when contacting us.

Preferred Airparts, 800-433-0814 US/Canada; 330-6980280. Check stock at www.preferredairparts.com t f n

Order your DeSpain Pen and Ink Drawing of the M18 Dromader today. $60.00 plus S&H. Call 478-987-2250

Order your DeSpain Pen and Ink Drawing of the AT-602 today. $60.00 plus S&H. Call 478-987-2250 or order online at agairupdate.com Save money. Buy used. Parting out several Air Tractor 402, 502, 602, and 802, Thrush and , Ag Cats. Call Chad Stuart.

Airplane Services, Inc. 850-380-6091 (0 5 -12)

Order your DeSpain Pen and Ink Drawing of the AT-802 today. $60.00 plus S&H. Call 478-987-2250 or order online at agairupdate.com

It’s more than just the hIstory of avIatIon It’s the lIvIng hIstory of mIssIssIppI and the south AT-401s several units 2006 and 2007 year models. Less than 200 hours TT. Like new. 3-blade prop. Contact for prices: info@airtractoreurope.com, +34667102184. tfn

AT-602: Trim your overhead. You’ll reduce costs and increase profit margins when you scale a multi-plane operation down to a single-plane operation. Air Tractor’s AT-602 makes it an easy choice. The big 630-gallon payload moves you up to high volume production, reduces loads, saves time and helps trim operating expenses compared with two smaller planes. The AT-602 is the ideal solution for 5-gallon work on center-pivot circles. Step it up with an AT-602. Visit your Air Tractor dealer. T F N

Where a Way of lIfe, comes to lIfe. AT-802: Capacity that creates profits. An 800-gallon hopper, zippy 190 mph ferry speeds, and greater working capacity than any other ag aircraft on the market - the AT-802 is simply a hoss. With the AT-802 you’ll ferry faster, spray more fields and do bigger jobs all in one load. That’s production that only Air Tractor can offer you. Visit with your Air Tractor dealer about the AT-802. And ask about special Air Tractor financing now available from Wells Fargo for qualified buyers. T F N Large inventory or Air Tractor Parts. Surplus to our needs.

Call for list. Air Repair, Inc. Phone. 662-846-0228 Fax. 662843-0811 sales@airrepairinc.com tfn

Order your DeSpain Pen and Ink Drawing of the AT-401 today. $60.00 plus S&H. Call 478-987-2250 or order online at agairupdate.com

NatioNal agricultural aviatioN MuseuM

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natIonal agrIcultural avIatIon museum 1150 lakeland drive, jackson ms monday - saturday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

601-713-3365 800-844-TOUR this project is partially funded through a grant by the jackson convention and visitors Bureau

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thrush

Order your DeSpain Pen and Ink Drawing of the Flying Dromader today. $60.00 plus S&H. Call 478-987-2250 or order online at agairupdate.com

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1989 S2R G-6 8050 TTAF 610 Since Iran Engine, Drop Booms, CP Nozzels, Single Point Fuel, Satloc M3 With Intelli Flow, A/C, Quick Start.... Clean Good Flying Airplane. Asking $240,000 Please Call 806-778-1418 (0 3 -12)

1979 Piper Pawnee Brave, PA 36-450, Conversion a Pratt & Whitney Radial R-985 de 450hp! 3,972 horas tiempo total, 712 horas desde reparación mayor motor. $60,000 Sun Valley Dusting, 956-399-5323, Fax 956-399-2320 t f n 1982 Piper PA-18-150 Super Cub, 500 horas desde nuevo!!, Tela nueva, pintura nueva, micas nuevas, recién inspecionado, GPS, Comm, Transponder. El PA-18 más nuevo y bonito en el mercado, $160,000 Sun Valley Dusting, 956399-5323, Fax 956-399-2320 t f n J & C Enterprises avaition Inc. Wants to buy your Piper, Pawnee or Brave aircraft. We are also looking for parts inventory, or derelect aircraft as well 800-542-8565 or email jcaviation@pldi.net A t f n

Order your DeSpain Pen and Ink Drawing of the Piper Pawnee today. $60.00 plus S&H. Call 478-987-2250 or order online at agairupdate.com Piper airframe parts, continental and Lycoming engine parts and a few spray system parts, new surplus, big discounts! Please have part numbers when contacting us. Preferred Airparts, 800-433-0814 US/Canada; 330698-0280. Check stock at www.preferredairparts.com tfn

1994 S2R 510-45, 6800 TTAF, Fast start, Load Hog, Lane brake & fan, cp-11, M3 w/flow control. All new glass, tires & brakes. Heat & AC. Very Fast & Clean! Asking $430,000.00 call 870-692-8305 (0 3 -12)

Order your DeSpain Pen and Ink Drawing of The 510 Thrush today. $60.00 plus S&H. Call 478-987-2250 or order online at agairupdate.com Turbine Thrush -500 gallon, super clean, Walters 2007 conversion by Johnson, M3, flow control, air, bottom fuel, powder coated frame, no rice work. Mid Continent 573-359-0500 tfn 1996 Thrush S2R-6, 4250 TT, 500 TT Since hot Section, 1000 hrs since gearbox. $375,000. Call 229-886-8592 ( 03-12)

Gulf Coast aG airCraft sales & serviCe “Century” wing spar for Thrush S2R aircraft. Lifetime spar without inspections, economical and easy to install.

Call Eugene For Details at 979-533-1720 We are now taking orders for the Century Wing Spar with delivery date of June 20th as of this date. Call to reserve your spar today!!

Garrett TPE-331-10-511M 2 engines available with lots of time and cycles remaining. Call for info.

Looking for salvageable or slightly damaged Thrush wings.

Please call if you have any for sale.

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Several sets of late model wings • Metal Thrush tails • Many other items

CALL EUGENE DAY OR NIGHT

979-532-1718 • 979-533-1720 36A

agairupdate.com

N753WC, J.A.S. REMANUFACTURED WALTER CONVERSION THRUSH 0 TT Since Complete Rework of Aircraft, Factory Hot and High Remanufactured Engine, (751 SHP), Cascade Conversion, Very Low Time Thrush SPAR Caps, Newly Covered Cool Seat, Serv-Aero modified horizontal Stabilizer New style dropped boom brackets Tulare, California.

559-686-1794 / Email info@johnstonaircraft.com www. johnstonaircraft.com tfn

N752WC 2010 J.A.S. REMANUFACTURED WALTER CONVERSION THRUSH 130 Total Time Since Complete Rework of Aircraft, Factory Hot and High Remanufactured Engine, (751 SHP), Cascade Conversion, New Avia High Performance Propeller, 510 Gal. Hopper, Weath-Aero Fan, Stainless Steel Booms, CP Nozzles, 3” Left Side Load, Wing Extensions, 40,000 Hr. Avenger Spar Cap Kit, New H.D. Wing Leading Edge Skins and Ribs, 192 Gal. Fuel, Vortex Generators, Wing Root Fairings, Aileron Servos, Bottom Load Fuel, 29” Tires, Spring Steel Tailwheel with 5.00 X 5 Tire, Air conditioning, New Intellistar GPS with Intelliflow Flow Control, Smoker, Flagger, Garmin COM Radio, Nav / Strobe / Instrument / Landing Lights, Oregon Aero Seat Cushions, New Side Panels with Stainless Steel Fasteners, New Custom Paint, Excellent Tires / Glass / New Poly Fiber Fabric. Tulare, California. 559-686-1794 / Email info@ johnstonaircraft.com www.johnstonaircraft.com t f n WORLD WIDE THRUSH Sales Exclusive U.S. dealer Canada, Mexico- New/Used Ag Thrush, 34-510, 550-60, 660-67. *FINANCING AVAILABLE*Mid-Continent Aircraft, Hayti, MO/ (573) 359-0500. http://www.midcont.net tfn

Order your DeSpain Pen and Ink Drawing of the Thrush 660 today. $60.00 plus S&H. Call 478-987-2250 or order online at agairupdate.com J & C Enterprises Aviation Inc. has 29” wheel sets. We will accept your 10” wheel and brakes in exchange. Call Jerry or Sid 800-542-8565 or email jcaviation@pldi.net Atfn

The 660 Thrush with its innovative wing design and 54 foot wing span and over 400 square foot wing area ensures unmatched stability and control during Ag maneuvers. The combination of a solid airframe and powerful engine creates an airplane that outperforms the competition. Thrush is known for their structural durability and excellent performance under extreme conditions. www.thrushaircraft.com

Order your DeSpain Pen and Ink Drawing of the Radial Thrush today. $60.00 plus S&H. Call 478-987-2250 FAA repair station for all ag equipment. Thrush spar replacement, annuals. Mid-Continent Aircraft Corp. Hayti, MO 800-325-0885 tfn

Large inventory of Thrush parts surplus to our needs. Call for list. Air Repair, Inc. Phone. 662-846-0228 Fax. 662-8430811 sales@airrepairinc.com t f n WORLD WIDE THRUSH Sales Exclusive U.S. dealer Canada, Mexico- New/Used Ag Thrush, 34-510, 550-60, 660-67. *FINANCING AVAILABLE* Mid-Continent Aircraft, Hayti, MO 573359-0500. 800-325-0885 http://www.midcont.net t f n The 550 Thrush offers new sturdy hopper and innovative large hopper door to improve access when loading dry chemicals, while providing a 550 gallon capacity.

Fuel economy, low acquisition cost and proven performance makes the 550 Thrush a great option for operators. The 550 Thrush offers a choice of power plants, allowing you to tailor the aircraft to meet the demands of your particular operating environment. www.thrushaircraft.com

Order your DeSpain Pen and Ink Drawing of the Stearman today. $60.00 plus S&H. Call 478-987-2250 or order online at agairupdate.com

weatherly

bell - hiller For Sale (1) Bell 47 Mark 5 Tom Cat with trailer and SS spray gear $95,000 (1) Bell 47 G-5 with spray gear with trailer and GPS $110,000. Call 717-334-0280 or 863-675-6919 (03-12)

Order your DeSpain Pen and Ink Drawing of the Weatherly today. $60.00 plus S&H. order online at agairupdate.com

miscellaneous aircraft The 510 Thrush has sent the standard in Ag Aviation for dependability. With rugged construction, simplified system and low maintenance, the 510 Thrush is the aircraft any operator can depend upon. Low maintenance, maximum loads, superior pattern makes the 510 Thrush a profit machine. All Thrush Aircraft models provide superb visibility, light control forces, and unmatched speed and maneuverability. www.thrushaircraft.com

Order your DeSpain Pen and Ink Drawing of the Clipped J3 Cub today. $60.00 plus S&H. Call 478-987-2250 or order online at agairupdate.com Unlimited Racer project: 85% complete Yak11, 3350 turbo compound with many spare parts including engine. Call with best offer. For pictures and details call Frost Flying Inc. 870-295-6213 t f n Best Classified Buy In The Industry.

888-987-2250. Fax: 888-382-6951.

Order your DeSpain Pen and Ink Drawing of the Bell 206 Helicopter today. $60.00 plus S&H. Call 478-987-2250 or order online at agairupdate.com

engines Wright 1820 firewall forward off Bull Thrush includes all accessories, 500 hrs smoh -76 heads also 510 Thrush hopper. For Information rslatersprayser@gmail.com or call 701-739-4875 (0 3 -12)

1972 Citabria, 860 ttsn fresh annual in August, 1 king 195 com, 1 Garmin 150 GPS in the box with sale wheel pants, Sigtronics intercom, dry country airplane entire life PRICE REDUCED to $37,500 email denny_ohara@yahoo.com or call 806-679-2202 (0 3 -12)

Order your DeSpain Pen and Ink Drawing of the Dual Cockpit Thrush, today. $60.00 plus S&H. Call 478-987-2250 or order online at agairupdate.com

Order your DeSpain Pen and Ink Drawing of In-Formation today. $60.00 plus S&H. Call 478-987-2250 or order online at agairupdate.com

2008 BEECHCRAFT BARON G58, 1,000 Horas desde Nuevo! Equipado con la sistema Garmin 1000, con radar, trafico, nexrad, etc. Aire condicionado, certificado de aeronavigabilidad de exportación. Este avión se encuentra en condición de nuevo. $950,000 Sun Valley Dusting, 956399-5323, Fax 956-399-2320 t f n

B1-A Callair Manufacturing Rights. Available now is the type certificate, drawings, jigs, tooling, aircraft parts, and property associated with this 300 gal Pratt and Whitney 985 powered sprayer. Start your own aircraft company or expand your line. Call for details. Airplane Services Inc. 850-675-1252, 850-380-7268, 850-380-6091. (0 5 -12)

Pratt and Whitney overhauled 1340 cylinders call Terry at 870-536-1348 or David at 870-550-1664 (0 3 -12) Cylinders For Sale – Overhauled complete assy’s with new pistons installed. Ready to install. R-985 $1250.00 each Two or more less 5%: R-1340 $1950.00 each Two or more less 5%: Outright price: includes all gaskets. Sun Air Parts.

661-257-7708 fax 661-257-7710 T F N

Trade with members of NAAA

2012 AT-502B Available Late June

800-441-2964 Ask for Chuck Stone or Rick Stone F O B Fort Pierce, FL

AIRCRAFT SALES & SERVICE

Office: 772-461-8924 • Fax: 772-461-9050 • mail@southeasternaircraft.com • www.southeasternaircraft.com

March 2012

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PT6A ENGINES ATS maintains one of the largest replacement engine inventories in the industry and can quickly and fairly evaluate your core or mid-time PT6 engine for exchange credit or outright purchase. View our current engine inventory at www.PT6A.aero (FAA CRS TQZR133K) PT6A engines for Sale or Exchange. t f n

Souther Field Aviation, Inc.

FOR ALL YOUR MAINTENANCE & PARTS NEEDS

Export Experts Authorized Turbine Brave Conversion • Transland • Covington Engines • Ag Nav • Turbine Conversions • Single Point Fueling

• Agrinautics Pumps & Valves • Wag • Cascade Conversions • TracMap

Universal Turbine Parts 10 ea PT6A-27/28 TSO 0, 0, 0, 1256, 1543, 1879, 2282, 2282, 3482, 3515 2 ea PT6A-34AG TSO 0 2 ea PT6A-34 TSO 0 2 ea PT6A-41 TSO 1920, 2370 1 ea PT6A-42 TSO 3234 1 ea PT6A-50 TSO 6205 2 ea JT15D-5 TSO 2582, 2945 We also buy PT6 engines in all conditions. Please call Bill or Joel at 334-361-7853 or email bmershon@UTPparts.com or jplake@UTPparts.com t f n

AUTHORIZED THRUSH PARTS DISTRIBUTOR AND SERVICE CENTER

And So Much More…

Frankie Williams - President—frankie@southerfield.com Paul Pearson - Parts & Maintenance—parts@southerfield.com Stephanie Williams - Exports—stephanie@southerfield.com

223 Airport Road, Americus, GA 31709 Phone: 229-924-2813 Fax: 229-924-4356 www.southerfield.com

J & C Enterprises Aviation Inc. has the largest selection of Lycoming and Continental engine cores in stock. Over 100 to choose from. Call Sid or Jerry for your parts or engines needs. 800-542-8565 or email jcaviation@pldi.net A t f n

STATE OFFICE OF THE GEORGIA AGRICULTURAL AVIATION ASSOCIATION

J ohnston A ircrAft s ervice SUPPORTING AG AVIATION SINCE 1947!!!

Pratt & Whitney R-985 & R-1340 Overhauled Engines in stock. Props, carburetors, magnetos, alternators, & accessories for above engines. Call Chester Roberts Supply Company, Collinsville, TX Tel: 903-429-6805 Fax: 903429-6047 crs5r@aol.com (0 4 -12) PT6A-28 TSO 3684 Fresh HSI PT6A-28 TSO 0 PT6A-28 TSO 2554 PT6A-34 TSO 0 PT6A-34 TSO 4200 PT6A-114A TSO 0 PT6A-114A TSO 1866 PT6A-135 TSO 527 PT6A-135A TSO 236 PT6A-112 TSO 3240 PT6A-21 TSO 3599 PT6A-42 TSO 2901 Fresh HSI Phone: 305-825-2001 Email preeves@jsamiami.com Email krod@jsamiami.com (0 3 -12) FOR SALE: PT6-15AG TTSN 3980, “0” time since light overhaul

by Timken Aerospace, Prop Gov, Prop Overspeed gov, Starter Gen. fuel pump.$235,000.00. Cascade Aircraft Conversion 509-635-1212 cascade@completebbs.com ( 0 8 - 1 2 ) PT6-45R, (4500 TBO) “0” Since Light O/H power section, 3264 SOH power section, 1498 SOH gas generator, “0” SHOT, OHC prop gov., $250,000 AR/870-572-9011 (03-12)

THRUSH / PIPER BRAVE / PAWNEE / CESSNA AG / AG-CAT / AIR TRACTOR • AIRCRAFT SALES / SERVICE / PARTS / MODIFICATIONS

Garrett TPE-331-10-511M 2 engines available with lots of time and cycles remaining. Call for info. 979-532-1718, 979-533-1720 Day or night A 4 - 12

JAS REMANUFACTURED WALTER CONVERSION THRUSHS

TPE-PC (2-1/2cores) ............................................. $3,500 TPE331-6-252M (Dmgd Core Nice Logs) ............. $6,500 R985 AN14B 792 SMOH (API)............................. $10,500 R985 AN14 1045 SMOH (Cov)..............................$14,500 R1340-AN2 (Cov) 1115-SMOH..............................$19,000 AmAg 870-886-2418 (2489F) agcat@bscn.com t f n

Excellent Performance - Reasonable Price

R-1340, zero time since overhaul by Covington $59,500.00 New PT6 -11, 15, 34, 60, 65, 67 outright or exchange call Lane Aviation 888-995-LANE 281-342-5451 or FAX 281232-5401 t f n

AUTHORIZED THRUSH PARTS DISTRIBUTOR AND SERVICE CENTER

10,000 P/N of Continental & Lycoming parts, 50% discount on most new! Please have part numbers when contacting us. Preferred Airparts, 800-433-0814 US/Canada; 330698-0280. Check stock at www.preferredairparts.com t f n

N753WC

0 TT Since Complete Rework of Aircraft Factory Hot and High Remanufactured Engine (751 SHP), Cascade Conversion Very Low Time Thrush SPAR Caps Newly Covered Cool Seat Serv-Aero modified horizontal Stabilizer New style dropped boom brackets

We repair / moDify / tHruSH anD Brave WingS anD Control SurfaCeS inCluDing AVENGER, CENTURY & FACTORY SPAR CAP inStallation / SaleS.

Brave 4,100 Hour Kit Installation and Sales.

We install and sell Cascade Walter conversions and pressure cowls.

Thrush Fuel Capacity Increase.

Thrush Landing Gear Repair and Rebuild.

Distributor / Rebuilder of Emco Wheaton Dry Break Equipment.

Distributor / Dealer For All Ag Equipment.

Parts & Services Catalog Available.

We completely rebuild/repair/modify Thrush and Brave aircraft!!

Covington Turbine Engines Available.

PT6A-34AG 50 TSN PT6A-34AG 1789 TSO SOLD PT6A-34AG 780 TSOSOLD PT6A 2800 TSO SOLD PT6A-15AG0 Time Since Covington Light Overhaul PT6A-34AG 0 TSO PT6A-34AG 0 Time Since Covington Light Overhaul. Contact us for New Engine prices. We are interested in buying or exchanging for any core you may have regardless of condition.

Contact: David Hamilton at 918-756-7862 or davidh@ covingtonaircraft.com A t f n

dispersal equipment For Sale certificated 331 fuel nozzles for -5 or -6. $5200 neg 308-883-0047 (0 3 -12) Miscellaneous Spreaders for Piper and Cessna. For more information call 806-777-1602 (0 3 -12) Swathmaster Spreader off Air Tractor, 24 in gate $3500. (2) Satloc Air Star 99.5’s (2) 2-inch Crophawks, Make an offer Call 830-278-5522 or 830-275-1127 (03 -12)

Distributor for APS “Bla ck Steel®” Brake discs and linings

We Have SolutionS to tHe tHruSH Wing Spar Cap aD long life Spar Cap kitS neW faCtory loWer Spar CapS 24 HR. PHONES: 559-686-1794 or 686-2161 FAX: 559-686-9360 P.O. Box 1457, Tulare, CA 93275 Se Habla Español info@johnstonaircraft.com • parts@johnstonaircraft.com

www.johnstonaircraft.com 38A

agairupdate.com

Three spreaders. 2-Piper Brave and 1 Ag Cat. One PA-36 spreader is standard, used for spreading ant bait (needs fixing: $1000). The other is wide, used for rye grass seeding (excellent condition: $4000). The Ag Cat spreader is for a 25” gate box (very good condition, not pictured: $1500). For more info Email: mark@evansonaero.aero or call 281-389-1731 (0 3 -12) Stainless Steel Fabricators, Inc.-- We manufacture the SSF 13 vane, 12 vane and original 10 vane spreaders plus more.

Call us at 800-736-3433 or 870-217-9232 (0 3 -12)

Dispersal Equipment: Weathaero Feathering Fans, Crophawks, Smokers, Flaggers, Nozzles, Transland, Breckenridge Spreaders, Airfoil Booms, Dry Breaks, Load Hawgs All Aircraft Styles. Mid-Continent Aircraft, Hayti, MO, 800325-0885 www.midcont.net. t f n Newberg Electrostatic Spraying LLC is the exclusive distributor for Spectrum Electrostatic Spray Systems. Do more acres with better performance. Call Ed Newberg 320-848-2745.

Serving northern US and Canada. Now STC’d for all 400 and 500 series Air Tractors.

(0 3 -12) Transland and Agrinautics authorized distributor – Call us with your needs. Sid or Jerry @ J & C Enterprises 1-800542-8565 or e-mail jcaviation@pldi.net At fn CP NOZZLES AND CHECK VALVES. Distribuidor en Argentina: ArAvia S.A. -Venado Tuerto (Sta Fe) T.E. 54-3462-433540 FAX: 438344 tfn ASC Rotary Atomizers - See www.dynafog.com/ascresults and April 2009 issue of AAU, A. McCracken. Made in USA. asc@ dynafog.com, 317-896-2561 A 0 1 -13 ASC Rotary Atomizers - Consistent droplets, large flow openings, easy to mount without changing your existing pump, boom and flow control method. Made in USA. asc@dynafog. com, 317-896-2561 A 0 1 -13

Authorized AgNav Distributors. New and used systems. GIS Spray data services/conversion. Summit Helicopters Inc. Call Gary at 816-813-0442. summitGIS@earthlink.net (03-12)

parts WINGMAN SYSTEM REMOVED FROM AT-602. WORKS. $6000 O.B.O. 806-200-4189 (0 3 -12) Satloc lite works good $1000 OBO for more information call 870-318-5607 (0 3 -12) One Simplex Sprayer used on a Hiller 12E, One Bucket Spreader-Hydraulic, One AgNav2 GPS. All to go. Call Allan 406 778 2347 or 406 978 2347(cell) (0 3 -12) Replacement parts. New and used for all Ag Cat models. Also carry New Piper tailwheel springs and Transland Dealer. Call Hershey Flying Service 308-368-5556 (01-13) The mid-west Air tractor dealer, Farm Air Inc. has expanded its parts department. Call Carrie or Randy for all your Air Tractor parts needs at 877-715-8476. tfn Cessna Authorized Parts Center: Prompt, World-Wide Parts Service, Engines, Bonaire 550 Conversions, Wings.Mid-Continent Aircraft, Hayti, MO, 800-325-0885 www.midcont.net. t f n

Everything you need for fixed wing or helicopter JAS 559-6861794, FAX 559-686-9360, e-mail: info@johnstonaircraft.com web site: www,johnstonaircraft.com t f n

Call Bruce’s Flying Service for all of your Thrush parts needs!

229-725-4150, fax 229-725-5135. E-mail bruceandrews62@ gmail.com.

09 -12

TRANSLAND 10 vane sprder for 38” gate, new $9400 Agrinautics, root, Crophawk, Transland, others Lane Aviation 281-342-5451 or FA X 281-232-5401.t fn

25 inch Breckinridge Spreader. $2500. Call Chad Stuart.

Airplane Services Inc. 850-380-6091.

(0 5 -12)

CP NOZZLES AND CHECK VALVES “The Drift fighters”. Plus they improve your spray pattern. Contact Johnston Aircraft Service, Inc. 24 hr. Tel 559-686-1794, FAX 559-686-9360, e-mail: info@johnstonaircraft.com web site: www.johnstonaircraft.com t f n

We have many ROOT PUMP (Neito) parts in stock. Call Rick @ Southeastern Aircraft Sales & Service 800-441-2964. t f n

Transland and Agrinautics, overstock sale. Call Danny for listing 662-846-0228 Fax. 662-843-0811 sales@airrepairinc. com t f n ASC Rotary Atomizers - Why use old hydraulic nozzle technology? Rotary Atomizers are proven as the most accurate method to apply both low & high volume formulations. Made in USA. asc@dynafog.com, 317-896-2561 A 0 1 -13 SprayTarget variable rate nozzles in stock. Air Repair, Inc. Phone. 662-846-0228 Fax. 662-843-0811 sales@airrepairinc.com t f n Variable Rate OC and engine driven hydraulic spray control systems. Coming soon variable rate dry for standard gate and hydraulic flaps. Air Repair, Inc. Phone. 662-846-0228 Fax. 662-843-0811 sales@airrepairinc.com t f n

Pressure Cowls for all PT6 Air Tractor and Thrush. Reduce ITT 35 to 70 degrees. Reduce fuel consumption. Save on Hot Section Inspections. Easy access to fuel nozzle & air filter.

Reduce NG 1 to 3%. Make your -15 perform like a -34. ELIMINATE ONGOING AIR FILTER PURCHASES! Now taking deposits and scheduling deliveries for mid-late 2011 and early 2012.

Please contact Cascade Aircraft Conversions at 509-6351212 or tom@cascadeaircraftconversions.com . (08-12) New M3 (LAST ONE) Intellistar, Bantum, Litestar II, Intelliflow Systems. On the shelf ready to ship. Used Litestar II, Used Airstar. READY Compton flying Service 888-336-3924 t f n

gps

Intelliflow Flow Controls -in stock, now shipping! Sky Tractor Supply 1-800-437-5319 tfn Hemisphere GPS systems in stock, Bantham, G4, Intellistar, M3, Intelliflow, and Litestar2. We did it again, leading Level 3 Service Center/Dealer 2011. Why buy anywhere else, we’ve got what you need, and service after the sale! Call now 800437-5319 Sky-Tractor Supply Company tfn Used Satlocs. Litestar 1 and II. Airstar. New M3s in stock Prompt repair service Compton Flying Service 888-336-3924 t f n

YOUR #1 AIR TRACTOR DISTRIBUTOR IN SALES AND SERVICE AIRCRAFT 2012 AIR TRACTORS, ALL MODELS, FALL DELIVERIES.......................................................... $CALL$ 2013 AIR TRACTORS , RESERVIE YOUR POSITION NOW ........................................................ $CALL$ 2012 AT-602, -60AG OR -65AG, SPEC’D TO ORDER, APRIL DELIVERY .................................. $CALL$ 2009 AT-802A, 1700 TTAF&E, -65AG, Hyd Gate, Del Norte W/Flow, Load Hawg ...............$1,100.000

PROPELLERS HARTZELL 3 BLADE AND 5 BLADED PROPS – New And Used ...................................... $CALL$ Cascade Aircraft Conversions Barrier Filter System for the Soloy Turbine Converted Bell 47/Hiller 12 Helicopters. See decreased TOT by up to 38 degrees C. Pull full torque at lower TOT temps, burn less fuel, extend the life of critical turbine parts. Contact Cascade Aircraft Conversions at 509635-1212 or tom@cascadeaircraftconversions.com . (08-12) Thrush Aircraft has surplus inventory - Tube Engine Control: 19561T004, 19561T005, 19561T006, 19561T007, 19561T008, Gussett Engine Control: 19561T009, 19561T010, 19561T011. Email rcarter@thrushaircraft.com or call Ray Carter 229.789.0453. (t f n)

Satloc and Del Norte Air Repair Inc, is the worldwide leader in sales and sercece. Call Danny (sales) or Dallas (service) 662846-0228 Fax. 662-843-0811 sales@airrepairinc.com tfn

Thrush Aircraft has surplus inventory – interested?

19500T010 Plate Outside Finger, 19500T011 Plate Top, 19500T012 Plate Cross Bay, 19500T013 Plate Clevis Wrap, 19500T014 Plate Cross Bay, 19500T015 Plate Clevis Wrap 19500T035 Plate, 10734T001 Plate, 10734T002 Plate, 19530T013 Plate Cross Bay 19533T002 Plate Muff End Liner, 19533T007 Plate Muff End, 19533T008 Plate Muff End Outer. Email rcarter@thrushaircraft.com or call Ray Carter 229.789.0453. (t f n)

Hemisphere GPS & Flow Control Dealer Johnston Aircraft Service, Inc. 24 hr. Tel 559-686-1794, FAX 559-686-9360, e-mail: info@johnstonaircraft.com web site: www.johnstonaircraft.com. t f n

Thrush Aircraft has surplus inventory. Dishpan Brackets 19520T010, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 21, 22;Dishpan Top 19520T005; Dishpan Cuff 19519T001 Email rcarter@ thrushaircraft.com or call Ray Carter 229.789.0453. (t f n)

Satloc, Intelliflow The leading edge Satloc Level III Service repair center. Mid-Continent Aircraft Corp. Hayti, Mo 800325-0885. t f n

new Air Tractor in your future.

ENGINES R-1340, ZERO TIME SINCE OVERHAUL BY COVINGTON .............................................. $59,500 NEW PT6 -11, 15, 34, 60, 65, 67 OUTRIGHT OR EXCHANGE ........................................ $CALL$

Agrinautics, Inc. Best spray pumps, valves, and strainers in the business! For service w/ a smile,call us at 435-586-1200. e-mail: agrinaut@cedarcity.net t f n

Satloc sales and warranty service. Quick turn around on repairs New and used systems in stock Flow control systems and Vacuum Meters in stock Compton’s Flying Service 888-336-3924 (tfn)

Plan for the

DISPERSAL EQUIPMENT TRANSLAND 10 VAIN SPREADER FOR 38” GATE, NEW ................................................... $9,400 AGRINAUTICS, ROOT, CROPHAWK, TRANSLAND, OTHERS .......................................... $CALL$

Lane Aviation, Inc. “Specializing in Turbine and Piston Air Tractors”

888-995-5263

281-342-5451 TEL • 281-232-5401 FAX e-mail: glane@laneav.com • www.laneav.com P.O. Box 432 • Rosenberg, Texas 77471 March 2012

39A

Angel Personal Flight Assistant - in stock, shipping today.

Premium quality Bluetooth interface for the cockpit. Noise free cell phone use without fumbling for your phone. Caller ID, direct dial, redial, voice dial, download phonebook and call list entries, dial direct., Stream bluetooth music and control, E6B flight computer, Stopwatch, fuel and approach timer. Large full color easy to read backlit screen, intuitive menus, automatic cut out with radio transmissions, ambient light sensor. Sky Tractor Supply 1-800-437-5319 A t f n

Remember J & C Enterprises Aviation Inc. Is a Transland, Black Steel Brake and McFarlane dealer. We have a large amount of these brands inventory in stock as well as Cleveland. GE Lighting, Cessna, Piper etc. give us a call for all your parts needs at 800-542-8565 or email us at jcaviation@pldi.net A t f n

LOAD HAWG-The modern, efficient, safe, perfect way to improve your solids application. Mid-Continent Aircraft Corp.

Hayti, MO 800-325-0885 TFN

Used serviceable PT6 starter/generators. Wet or Dry spline. Guaranteed to work. $3,500 Chad Stuart. Airplane Services, Inc. 850-380-6091 (0 5 -12)

Fitting Engine Attach 15019T002, Doubler – Engine Attach 15019T906, 1340 Engine Mount, 19500T001, Engine Mount Ring Assy, 15019T906. Email rcarter@thrushaircraft.com or call Ray Carter 229.789.0453. (tfn)

Bendix/King GPS, KLN900, Part #066-04034-0104. TSO C129 Class A1 DO-178A Level 12 Power 18-33 VDC/3.3A Max . Email rcarter@thrushaircraft.com or call Ray Carter 229.789.0453. (tfn)

Thrush Aircraft has excess inventory – ready to move.

Circuit Breakers, Transformers, Studs, Bolts, Rivets, Starters, Gauges and more. For complete listing of inventory, Email rcarter@thrushaircraft.com or call Ray Carter229.789.0453. Be sure to check out our website at www.thrushaircraft.com under service and parts. ( t f n )

Thrush Aircraft has a surplus of Rivets: CR2162 4 4; 0059902, CR2163 4 1; 0059922 CR2163 4 2; 0059923, CR2248 4 1; 1953255, CR2248 4 3; 1953370, CR2248 4 5; NAS1739B4 5 CR2248 5 4; 1953280,CR2248 5 6; 19534481, CR2249 4 1, CR2249 4 2, CR2249 4 4, CR2249 5 6; 0059944, CR2249 6 3; 0066598, CR2539 4 1; 0066599, CR3212 6 4; 0091635 CR3212 6 5; 0092306, CR3212 6 6; 0091859, CR3212 6 7; 0091860, CR3212 6 8 CR3213 4 8; 0066386, CR3213 5 3; 0066388, CR3213 5 4; 0066389 CR3213 5 5; 0066390, CR3242 4 6; 3110053, CR3242 5 3; 0059855 CR3242 5 5; 3000176, CR3242 5 6; 3000177, CR3242 5 7; 3000171 CR3242 5 8; 3110481, CR3242 6 4 ; 3000168, CR3242 6 6; 3000170 CR3242 6 7 ; 3110095, CR3242 6 8, CR3243 4 8, CR3243 5 5 0059871 CR3243 5 6; 0059872, CR3243 6 2; 3000329, CR3243 6 3; 0057277 CR3243 6 4; 0057278, CR3243 6 8, CR3243 6 9; 0065301, CR3522 5 3; 3000704 CR3522 5 6; 3110061, CR3522 6 4; 3000708, CR3523 5 2; 3110050, CR3523 5 4; 3000682 CR3523 5 5; 3000683, CR3523 5 6; 3110327, CR3552 5 3; 3110394, CR3552 6 2; 3110274 CR3553 5 3; 3000282, CR517 6 6; 0059965, CR91662 5 2 0059980, CR9163 4 2; 0059985, CR9163 4 6 ; 0059991, CR9163 6 4; 0059977 Email rcarter@ thrushaircraft.com or call Ray Carter 229.789.0453 ( t f n ) .

Starter, Generator and Quad Kit for a G6. Email rcarter@ thrushaircraft.com or call Ray Carter 229.789.0453 ( t f n ) Kulite Model APTE 211 1000-70D Transducer for a G5, G6 or G10 engine. Voltage 28 OVDC and Torque Gauge part #21743-101. Email rcarter@thrushaircraft.com or call Ray Carter 229.789.0453. (t f n) Um par de asas estendida 95% completa do Thrush S2R. A pair of extended wings 95% complete Thrush S2R. Brazil. garciaviagricola@uol.com.br / 16 36274879 (t f n) J & C Enterprises Aviation Inc has purchased a large new inventory of Citabria GCBC part in late 1977-79 rnge. Lots of common everyday parts. Landing gear, wheels 7 brakes, engine parts etc. call Jerry or Sid today 800-542-8565 or email jcaviaiton@pldi.net Atfn ITT Gauge for a G6 (100-5812-01) and 67 (PT6A-67 Ag, part#590-40020, range 200-1200’C) engine, 1005812-01 Email rcarter@thrushaircraft.com or call Ray Carter229.789.0453. (tfn)

PA

referred

irparts

Cleveland Wheels and Brakes. Buy used and save money.

Air-Tractor, Thrush, Ag Cat. Chad Stuart Airplane Services Inc. 850-380-6091 (0 5 -12)

J & C Enterprises Aviation Inc. still has one of the largest Cessna, and Piper Ag Aircraft inventories in the USA and has a huge inventory of Lighting and wheel and brake inventory. Let us be your total part provider. Call in your needs - Sid or Jerry 800-542-8565 or jcaviation@pldi.net A t f n

New Surplus Aircraft parts!

Chosen for value and service

Discounts ranging from 25% to 85% off!

New surplus aircraft parts in stock for: Cessna, Piper, and many others, fixed and rotor wing!

• • • • • • • •

Airframe parts Accessories and parts Dispersal system parts Wheels, brakes and parts Propellers, blades and parts Spark plugs, filters of all kinds Engine parts, piston and turbine Hardware: AN, MS, NAS

nline Free o arch! y or Se Invent

www.preferredairparts.com

800-433-0814

NEW SALES HOURS

Tel. 330-698-0280 - Fax. 330-698-3164 sales2@preferredairparts.com

Call or check online for details!

Toll free, U.S. & Canada

We Buy Worldwide!

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agairupdate.com

7:15am to 8:00pm

EST.

Inventories of new parts for almost anything.

Spend your time doing what you do best “SPRAYING” and let us find those parts for you. Part numbers are really important. Call Jerry or Sid 800-542-8565 or email jcaviation@pldi.net Atfn

Superbooms for Cessna, Piper, Thrush, Air Tractor and custom manufacture; THRUSH AILERON SERVOS-STC’d kits.

TSA 800-642-5777 or tsa@702com.net (TFN)

Vacuum Meters ready to ship. Clean, accurate, closed system.

Why pay 50,000 for a accurate system when you can do it for a fraction of the price and require no computers. Compton Flying Service 888-336-3924 tfn

O/H’D Thrush 29” Landing Gear & We Can Repair / Rebuild Yours. Johnston Aircraft Service, Inc. 559-686-1794 / Email info@johnstonaircraft.com www.johnstonaircraft.com t f n

Air Tractor Parts New and Used (Associate dealer for Lane Aviation). FWF cowlings 402,502,602 many to chose from, removed for Factory and Cascade P-cowl conversions. New and used (Factory Rebuilt) Aileron, Flaps, Elevators, Rudders, Horz/Vert stabs in stock and ready to sale or trade. Call Wendel or Steve North Star Aviation 620-356-4528 wlambert@pld.com t f n We have all fibreglass parts for Weatherly and Ag-Cat (A, B and Super B). Call for prices. Professional Fibreglass Repair.

530-735-6264 t f n J & C Enterprises Aviation Inc. has 29” wheel sets. We will accept your 10” wheel and brakes in exchange. Also have 29” Thrush Landing Gear. Call Jerry or Sid 800-542-8565 or email jcaviation@pldi.net At fn Retrofit Hopper Door for AT502 and AT602. Now available for fall and winter installation Professional Fibreglass Repair.

530-735-6264 t f n Emco Wheaton/Buckeye Dry Break Couplers and adapters, Johnston Aircraft Service, Inc. 24 hr. Tel 559-686-1794, FAX 559-686-9360, e-mail: info@johnstonaircraft.com web site: www.johnstonaircraft.com t f n GPS Antenna Mount, for specific ag aircraft, Performance and looks, slip stream design delivers peak signals. Contact Terry Barber 605-258-2743.

(0 7-12) Set of new Thrush Aircraft current production wings featuring the 29,000 hour life limit on low spar caps. Upper and lower 4340 Chrome-Molly steel spar caps with 114 gallon fuel tank on each wing, 0 SNEW. Contact Thrush Aircraft Spares Department 229-883-1440, rcarter@thrushaircraft.com Complete Thrush Factory Metal Tail W / Updates.Johnston Aircraft Service, Inc. 559-686-1794 / Email info@johnstonaircraft.com www.johnstonaircraft.com t f n

PARTS, PARTS, PARTS. For all your ag aviation needs, please call Southeastern Aircraft Sales & Service 800-441-2964 Air Tractor Dealer tfn 8 Million new surplus parts for Cessna, Piper, and other aircraft; Continental and Lycoming engines; and a few spray system parts, big discounts. Please have part numbers when contacting us. Preferred Airparts, 800-433-0814 US/Canada; 330698-0280. Check stock at www.preferredairparts.com t f n Accessories & Parts! 100’s of new and OHC accessories, parts for just about everything. Big discounts! Please have part numbers when contacting us. Preferred Airparts, 800433-0814 US/Canada; 330-698-0280. Check stock at www. preferredairparts.com t f n Jasco Alternator kits in stock. Air Repair, Inc. Phone. 662846-0228 Fax. 662-843-0811 sales@airrepairinc.com tfn PARTS, PARTS, PARTS... For all your ag aviation needs, please call Southeastern Aircraft Sales & Service (800) 441-2964 Air Tractor Dealer A TFN Cessna Ag Parts. Air Repair, Inc. Phone. 662-846-0228 Fax. 662-843-0811 sales@airrepairinc.com t f n 10,000 P/N of Continental & Lycoming parts, 50% discount on most new! Please have part numbers when contacting us. Preferred Airparts, 800-433-0814 US/Canada; 330698-0280. Check stock at www.preferredairparts.com t f n Cessna Parts - Engine, propellers, authorized service center.

Johnston Aircraft Service, Inc. 24 hr. Tel 559-686-1794, FAX 559-686-9360, e-mail: info@johnstonaircraft.com web site: www.johnstonaircraft.com.

A tfn Thrush parts - Wings, props, tail feathers, batteries, tires - we have the inventory. Johnston Aircraft Service, Inc. 24 hr. Tel 559-686-1794, FAX 559-686-9360, e-mail: info@ johnstonaircraft.com web site: www.johnstonaircraft.com.tfn

Brave and Pawnee parts - engines, props, spar kits, fuel cells and foam kits, and much more. Johnston Aircraft Service, Inc. 24 hr. Tel 559-686-1794, FAX 559-686-9360, e-mail: info@johnstonaircraft.com web site: www.johnstonaircraft.com. t f n S & T Aircraft Accessories, Inc. specializes in the overhaul of Radial and Turbine engine accessories. We have most items in stock ready to ship for exchange. Give us a call @ 830-625-7923 or fax 830-625-4138. t f n Agrinautics, Automatic Flagman, Aero Engines, Arrow prop, Air Tractor (Associate dealer Queen Bee Air Specialties) CP Nozzles, Compro Smoker, Crophawk, Covington Aircraft Engine, Collins Air Conditioner, Cleveland, Chip Detector, Hot Stuff, Honda Engines, Johnson Sidewinder, Nieto Products, New and used aircraft, (large) Parts Inventory, Schweizer, Spraying Systems, Co., Superbugs, APH-4 Helmet, Simplex, Tires, Transland, WeathAero. Sky Tractor Supply 800-4375319, 701-436-5881. t f n NEW! CP11TT/w-3 Tips & Shutoff in stock ready to ship today.1-800-437-5319 Sky-Tractor Supply Company t f n

propellers

Ag Aircraft Financing Available! Have years of exp. in financing aircraft of all sorts, including many Ag Aircraft! Competitive rates! Knowledgeable staff waiting to assist you in the process. Call Steve Songer at 765-585-0272 or ssonger@ centrebank.net (0 3 -12)

vehicles

FROST FLYING INC.

We build loader trucks to your specifications. Stainless Steel Straight and Fold Up. Mild Steel Straight and Fold Up. Mild Steel Hopper w/Stainless Steel Tube. Been in loader truck business since 1980. Call Pat Ballard Office:870-697-2004 Fax:870697-3568 185 Hwy. 42 West , Hickory Ridge, AR. ( 0 3 - 1 2 ) 1500 gal Jet A refueler; Nissan UD 3300 truck; epoxy lined steel tank: Liquid Control counter with predetermining counter (new 2003); single point and over the wing nozzles: automatic reel. Truck and pump work well; good rubber $13,900 or Will consider trades for auto, truck, or aircraft Call 501-985-1484 AR location.. tfn Auger Trucks For Sale (Trade-Ins) Also list of customer trucks. Call Auger Dan Office: 870-578-6133 Cell: 870-9192317 A 0 3 -12

GE M601-E11 751 HP TURBOPROP Conversions for Air Tractor and Thrush. Increased Reliability. No Hot Section Inspections. No Nozzles to Service. Cascade Pressure Cowl – Standard Equipment with Lifetime Serviceable Air Filter System! 3,000 HR Engine TBO. Auto Start Systems.

Lower Operating/Maintenance Costs. Improved Safety.

Ease of Maintenance Access. Warranty: 1,000 Hr / 1,100 Cycles or 2 Years. Now taking deposits and scheduling deliveries for mid-late 2011 and early 2012. Please contact Cascade Aircraft Conversions at 509-635-1212 or tom@ cascadeaircraftconversions.com (0 8 -12) J & C Enterprises has a Cessna 188 props in Stock Y.T. Also offer some STC’d propellers. Call Jerry or Sid 800-542-8565 or email jcaviation@pldi.net At fn Props for Sale: 2D30-6101A-18 OHC 12D40-6101A-12 OHC 22D40-6533A-12 OHC 23D40-6533A-18 OHC 24D40-6533A-18 Serviceable cond.

Call: PropWorks, Winnipeg, Canada Tel: 888-679-2965 email: propwork@mts.net

A12 -12

For Outright Sale: Overhauled 5-Blade Prop. Hartzell HC-B5MP3C. Fits AT-502A, AT-503, AT-602, AT-802, Thrush S-2R-T65 & S-2RHG-T65.’06 Hartzell Overhaul. TSN: 1379.5 (TSO:0). Call Steve or Gary 210-924-5561. sales@dixieair.com. ( 03 -12) IA200/FA8452, NEW..................................................$4,500 2D30-6101A20, A/R. .................................................$3,500 2D30-6101A12, O-IRAN........................................... $10,500 22D30-AG200-2 OHC................................................$15,500 12D40-6101A, 175-SIRAN .......................................$11,500 12D40-AG100-4S, OHC...........................................$15,500 22D40-AG200-2, 1200-SOH, 60 SIRAN & ADCW, .$17,500 12D40-AG100-2, 375-SOH Nice Blades...................$12,500 23D40-7005A-17 900 SOH ......................................$18,000 HC-B3TN-3D/5M OHC w/NEw+4 blades..................$20,000 AmAg 870-886-2418 (2489F) agcat@bscn.com t f n

finance/lease

Air Tractor financing can put an Air Tractor in your hanger.

Air Tractor offers competitive financing options in the U.S. and Canada from Wells Fargo Equipment Finance. Fly now and take seven years to pay, 10 years to amortize and have a fixed interest rate for the life of the loan. Other attractive term periods are available, too. These financing options are available on both new and used Air Tractors purchased through Air Tractor dealers. See your Air Tractor dealer today! t f n

miscellaneous

2012 Slots Available ..................................................................Call 2010 AT-802A, 860 TT AF&E, -65, smoker, elec. brake gr. adj., Intellistar w/flowcontrol, Wingman, 10” hydraulic gate, Fresh HSI, Fresh Annual. ............................................................. $1,190,000

Toy Cropdusting Airplanes!! Toy Cropdusting Airplanes of any model or kind. All Airplanes are made of solid wood w/ rubber tires, metal landing gears & metal spray systems.

These are built to your specifications w/your own tail number & paint job. These make great gifts. Get your holiday orders in today! Your kids & grand kids will say a big Thank You! Only $200 + S & H CSMURPHREE@GMAIL.COM ( 0 3 -12 ) Fight rodent infestation with Cascade’s innovative and extremely simple solution, Mouse Pants! Hand crafted from the highest quality 2024-T3 aircraft aluminum (lighter and not as likely to carve up an operator like galvanized steel). Quick action Wing nut CAMLOC aircraft grade fasteners. Rubber trimmed to protect your aircraft’s finish and the flooring surface. Order your set of three for only $599.00 plus shipping and handling. Please contact Cascade Aircraft Conversions at 509-635-1212 or tom@ cascadeaircraftconversions.com (0 8 -12)

D L O S 2010 AT-602, -60, 1820 TTAF&E, smoker, single point fuel, elec. brake D L gr. adj., Intellistar w/flowcontrol, Fresh HSI, Fresh Annual. O ...$950,000 S

2010 AT-602, -60, 1493 hrs TTAF&E smoker, single point fuel, elec. brake gr. adj., Wingman, 10” hydraulic gate, Intellistar w/flowcontrol, Fresh HSI, Fresh Annual. ...................................................$920,000

2009 AT-602, 1441 TTAF&E, -60, smoker, elec. brake gr. adj., CPs, 10” hydraulic gate, M3 flow control, wingman, Fresh HSI, Fresh Annual., . ........................................................................................$875,000 Unlimited Racer Project: 85% complete Yak 11, 3350 turbo compound with many spare parts including engine. Call with best offer. For pictures and details ........................................................CALL Complete Air Tractor Parts And Accessories Dealer For Every Major Ag Aviation Parts and Supplies

Order your DeSpain Pen and Ink Drawing of The AgOp Collage today. $60.00 plus S&H. Call 478-987-2250 or order online at agairupdate.com WANTED Owners/Aircraft S2R-T41 Ayres Turbo Thrush with the Pratt & Whitney PT6A-41. Cascade Aircraft is in the final stages of development for improvements to the S2R-T41 Ayres Turbo Thrush. Owners in the area of Eastern Washington / the PNW are encouraged to contact us. We need an aircraft to complete the final installation – if you are interested in reduced ITT 30 to 70 degrees, improved fuel efficiency, 15 minute filter replacements with lifetime filters then please contact Cascade Aircraft Conversions at 509-635-1212 or tom@cascadeaircraftconversions.com .

(0 8 -12) J & C Enterprises Aviation Inc. Is always looking for all types of derelict aircraft, parts inventory, both new and used. We will buy small or a shop full. Contact Jerry Buster 800-5428565 or email jcaviation@pldi.net At fn HELMET with slide up visor $850. Deluxe Kevlar Helmet with ANR, Softskins, Oregon seals $1200. Sky Tractor Supply 1-800-437-5319 Atfn

Weath-Aero

Large Selection of PT6 Accessories New Turbine Props and Blades 0 SMOH 1340 Younkin S/S Pumps, Booms and Center Boom for Air Tractor

Jack Frost Frost Flying Inc Office 870-295-6213 Fax 870-295-6674 jrfrost47@hotmail.com

Compro

Target Spray Variable Rate Nozzles

Parts 870-295-6218 Fax 870-295-6237 frostparts@hotmail.com

Large inventory of PT6 and Air Tractor parts • Financing Available Call for Wingman installation For AgAv Parts & Accessories Call Tommy Allen

Needed IA and A&P mechanics March 2012

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Reduce Drift, Increase Deposition and Retention use Control™ For FREE SAMPLE go to www.GARRCO.com/ freesample Call 765-395-3441, mrfoam1@garrco.com t f n English to Spanish Technical Translations Former A&P and Ag-Pilot, Carlos Retamosa Specializing in translating: • Aviation technical manuals • Airworthiness Directives (ADs) • Service Bulletins (SBs) Contact 598-53-24376 retamosa@adinet.com.uy

tfn

www.AircraftCostAnalysis.com AG Operators can calculate your breakeven, % investment return, profit potential, and produce annual & monthly cash flows. Project your financials without spending hours of your time. All reports are produced automatically and accurately after you provide your cost inputs and gross application fees. Types of analyses performed include: Company/ Individual Ownership, Managed with/without Leaseback, Commercial Operation, Agricultural/Fire/Ambulance Operations, Joint Ownership, Fractional Ownership, and Charter/Rental. AG sales organizations can provide prospects with customized & professional ownership cost analysis. This program is a great sales aid and management tool. FREE sample reports. Click REQUEST INFORMATION on the website or call 281-419-7443 Crop Duster Video - “The Crop Dusters - The Early Years 19211955”; the era of Stearmans and Cubs flying the fields will never be seen again. Available in VHS or DVD. Only $20.00, plus S&H. MC and Visa accepted. Call 478-987-2250 Fax 478-987-1836 Historical Video Productions. tfn

SUPERBUGS A safe and economical way to speed up Mother nature! Dispose of hazardous waste in loading and spill areas, ponds and ditches. SUPERBUGS disposes of insecticides, Fungicides, herbicides, and petroleum products Such as waste oil, diesel fuel, gasoline, solvent or anything of organic nature.

Blue Stripe Distributing Toll Free 877-924-5025 t f n AFS Check Valves- Make the switch to AFS check valves, Find out what many operators already know, increased productivity, eliminate leaks and drips, long life, and no moe trying to find buckets!!! To help clean up your operation today call 800833-2013. www.aeroflow.com or Fax 574-862-4669. t f n

Beautiful 2.73 ac wooded lot in upscale Pine Ridge Equestrian Estates, located in Citrus County, Florida only five miles from Crystal River. Covenants, 27 miles of horse trails, community center, pool and golf course. Nicer homes and mini-ranchettes. Zoning allows up to three horses and stables permitted on lot with your house. Horse trail borders back end of lot that is 298’ wide and 400’ deep on 3620 Stirrup Drive, Beverly Hills, Florida (Google it!). Public water and septic sewer. $64,900 Contact Bill Lavender 478-987-2250 bill@agairupdate.com.

One-acre-square house lot for sale in new Plane Living Sky Park neighborhood with 2,000 s.f., all brick, covenants. Lot is one of 13 directly on new sod runway. Taxi out of your hangar, directly onto the runway. Located in Peach County, Georgia. Public water, septic sewer. paved streets, curb and gutter, street lights. Less than five miles west of I-75, Exit 142, approximately five miles to Fort Valley, GA and approximately 10 miles to Warner Robins, GA. Google It! South side of Hwy 96 at 50 Lane Rd., Fort Valley, Georgia 31030 (Google photo before development). Save thousands and buy from owner. $50,000 OBO, includes closing costs. 478.987.2250.

PC SPRAY Dedicated Application Software, Version 3. Fullyfunctional program. Buy it once, use it forever! No annual fees. Technical support for the life of the product. Call or email for demo today. Sky Tractor Supply 1-800-437-5319. tfn

HOTSTUFF AG AIRCRAFT CLEANER Call to order the # 1 Ag Aircraft cleaner in the country, Used by over 400 operators Coast to Coast. Blue Stripe Distributing 877-924-5025 Atfn

INSURANCE from the Leading Ag Aviation Brokers. 63 Years Risk Management, Lowtime Pilot Coverage. Mid-Continent Aircraft, Hayti, MO, 800-325-0885 www.midcont.net.. t f n

software

insurance

Productions, Inc

Allied

Queen

C at s

N999QC 500 gal “SC-Plus” TPE331-6 Deluxe* ..... $525,000 N997QC 400 gal “SB-Plus” TPE331-1 Deluxe* ..... $450,000 N936QC 360 gal “SA-Plus” TPE331-1 Deluxe* ..... $375,000 * CAM’d Executive Engine, New 106” Prop

N995QC 350 gal “B-R1340” Complete/Deluxe** . $225,000 N992QC 300 gal “A+R985” Complete/Deluxe** (F.I.,H3Prop)$200,000 **0-SMOH Covington Engine/OHC Hydramatic Prop

Jigged Frames — Fully Warranted More Versatility, Safety and STOL Performance Less Debt, Maintenance and Depreciation Costs P.O. Box 482, Municipal Airport, Walnut Ridge, AR 72476 USA Tel: 870-886-2418 • agcat@bscn.com • Fax: 870-886-2489

Wheels up. PIM Aviation Insurance is one of the oldest and most experienced ag aviation insurance providers in the industry. We provide access to creative negotiation and problem solving for all your risk management needs. Our passion to keep you flying is deeply rooted, resulting in knowledgeable recommendations and cost-sensitive pricing.

For a free, no-obligation quote, call 800.826.4442 or visit us online at www.pimi.com. Proud member of NAAA. tfn “Insurance from a name you can trust, at a price you can afford”, is what we do and it’s our motto. Hardy Aviation Insurance, Inc, is centrally located in Wichita Kansas and has been servicing the aerial application market for years now. RANDY HARDY established Hardy Aviation Insurance in 1995 with aerial application as his main focus. Prompt courteous service from a staff dedicated and knowledgable includes ANGIE BANZ and RITA ETHRIDGE, both of whom have years of experience servicing the aerial application business. Give us a try, you might be suprised. Call 1 800 721-6733 or fax us at 316-945-2330. Get an online quote from our web site at www.hardyaviationins.com or e-mail us at hardy@hardyaviationins.com. t f n DOUG DAVIDSON, aircraft owner and commercial pilot, has served the unique insurance needs of the agricultural aviation community since 1982. He founded Davidson Solid Rock Ins. in 1995 on Christian principles, honesty, integrity, and the commitment to provide insurance products as solid as our name! One call is all it takes to shop all available markets for your specialized aviation insurance needs. We welcome the opportunity to talk with you at 800-358-8079.

Or visit our website at www.dsrockin.com .t fn

services !!Attention Thrush Owners!! North Star Aviation Inc is now the new STC holder of the Thrush Reinforce Leading Edge Skins. If you are getting ready to rebuild your Thrush wings due to AD09-26-11 or tired of bird strikes and ugly leading edges!! Now is the time to install North Star Aviations new Thrush heavy duty reinforced leading edge skins fully STC’d SA03518AT no Field approval required.

For more Info contact Wendel or Steve @ North Star Aviation Inc. 620-356-4528 wlambert@pld.com t f n Let us sell your Ag plane! Mid-Continent Aircraft Corp. 1601 Hwy 84 East Hayti, MO 63851 800-325-0885 TFN

Looking for Plane for cover crops, standing corn and soybeans, Late Aug./early Sept. Call Mark Hamlin at 715377-8388 or hamlinfarm@att.net (0 3 -12) Cascade Conversion for Thrush and Air Tractor. Fuel Saving, Cooler running, more power available. 800-325-0885 t f n We rebuild and refinish any fibreglass part for Weatherly, Cessna, Piper and Ag-Cat (A, B and Super B,C and D). Call for prices. Professional Fibreglass Repair. 530-735-6264 t f n Stainless Steel Fabricators, Inc. --- Stainless spreaders.

We repair all models including Transland and Swathmaster.

Remember to bring your spreaders in for repair as early as possible. Call for more information 800-736-3433 or 870217-9232.

(0 3 -12) Dynamic Propeller Balancing with Chadwick Helmuth engine printout equipment. Jeffries Airworks, Dynamic Balancing, Vibration Analysis. Much more than just a balance. Call Jim Jeffries, A&P/IA, 985-507-9981, Nationwide service on your location. (tfn)

wanted to buy

Trace is buying 401 and 402 Air Tractors, any age, any engine. Prefer 2000 models and up. Also buying 301 and 302’s with tall tails and 350 gallon hoppers. Top price paid for clean straight airframes with logbooks intact. Prefer no damage.for more information call 214-674-4023 or email andy.biery@traceengines.com 10 -12 Ag Aircraft Wanted: Immediate cash for Ag planes - All considered - Contact Darryl Riddell at 870-572-9011 ( 03-12) EXHAUST Wanted: R-1340 and R-985 Exhaust Send Old Exhaust segments for exchange or Sell them! Call Daryl @ 940-902-0797 or evans.daryl@sbcglobal.net tfn Wanted to Buy Air Tractor AT-301 or AT-401, Ferriable Southeastern Aircraft Sales 800-441-2964 or mail@southeasternaircraft.com t f n

operations AG BUSINESS FOR SALE, 35+ years of quality application.

Equipment at centrally located municipal airport and established satellite operations. Retail chemical sales growth potential. Two efficient Weatherly aircraft. Willing to help establish new owner. Attractive Montana agriculture based small town bigskydn@aol.com (0 3 -12) Successful established Mid-West aerial application business for Sale. modern hanger and chemical mixing building, 2-10,000 fuel tanks and pumps. local customer base, 100,000 acres plus. Currently using turbine aircraft. Please Send Mid West operation C/O AgAir Update P.O. Box 850 Perry GA 31069 or email blindads@agairupdate.com ( 0 3 - 1 2 ) Flying service located south of Beedeville, Arkansas. Nice 1,800 ft paved strip with parallel Bermuda strip, Late 90’s office, two large storage trailers, covered mixing area with ss vats and extra steel vat, large concrete/ asphalt loading pad, large newer vertical fuel with large electric pump, plenty of acres to build large hanger/hangers on. Base crop is rice, and there’s plenty of potential for someone starting. Send Response to AR Operations C/O AgAir Update PO Box 850 Perry Ga 31069 or email blindads@agairupdate.com Subject AR Operations (03-12)

An extraordinary opportunity to own Kootenai Valley Flying Service., Inc., a well established, stable and exclusive North Idaho aerial and ground application business. This package includes a 1981 Air Tractor, ground sprayers, 3000’ grass runway and hangar, a 2760 sq ft home, 182+ acres and too many items and equipment to list. $1,225,000. Call Darlene or Joe at 800-669-3248 or email: darlene@pace-kerby.com (0 3 -12)

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Great deal for small ag business in Oregon. 50x80 hangar on paved airstrip. With PA36 Piper Brave. $200,000 541296-4906 shearer@qnect.net (0 3 -12)

schools Ag/Fertilizer/Mosquito Pilot Training utilizing Pawnee PA-25/260 Dual Cockpit, Dual & Solo Flight Time in Ag Plane. SATLOC BANTAM. See ad in this issue & check out our videos at: www.eaglevistas.com. EAGLE VISTAS LLC 772-285-5506 02-13 Tailwheel endorsements and time building in south Texas for aspiring ag-pilots. C-170 available for training and rental with discounts for block time. Contact Clyde at 956-202-2094 or mrclyde_2003@hotmail.com. t f n Learn To Fly Ag In Sunny Brazil!!! Eight flight hours dual DGPS equipped (C170) plus 23 hours solo in EMBRAER 300 HP Ipanema (Similar To Brave 300HP) or CESSNA 188 AG TRUCK. 100 hours ground school (chemicals, crops, calibration DGPS, etc.) - Instructors are English/Spanish/ Portuguese Spoken.

Only $6,500.00 USD - Contact aasd@piq.com.br phone/fax 55 51 3723 7000 in Cachoeira Do SuL, state of RIO GRANDE DO SUL - BRAZIL www.aviacaoagricola.com.br tfn

S.E.A.T. PILOT WANTED. Experienced AT-802 fire suppression pilot wanted for summer fire seasons in the USA. Send resume with detailed spray and fire experience. Include references from each industry with their contact information. Send to airstream13@hotmail.com (0 3 -12) Resumes are now being Accepted for A&P near Arlington GA. PT6, Garrett and Thrush exp. and IA exp. a plus. Fax resumes to 229-725-5135 or email bruceandrews62@gmail. com ONLY! NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE! (0 9 -12) AT-802 IP needed at PAFB, FL. Minimum requirements: 2000 fixed wing hours; 1000 flt hours AG or fire suppression; FAA Class II Medical; CFII; Must speak to ACTFL Advance High or IRL Level 2+ Spanish proficiency. Background check required. E-mail resume to: EASTResume@ginl.state.gov.

An Equal Opportunity Employer.

(0 3 -12) Professional Ag Pilot to fly, operate, Manage 2nd location with Garrett thrush. Must have turbine time, herbicide exp. and be a member of State and National Association. Must be self motivated and able to work independently. Email resumes to scottavaition@kci.net (0 3 -12)

Ag pilot looking for seat 2012 season. 1400+ TT, 700+ AG. Herbicide experience. Numerous solid, credible references.

NAAA, PAASS, licensed in numerous states. Stable, mature, willingness to listen and learn. Desires LONG TERM position.

Call Wade at 805-354-9897 (0 3 -12) Exp. 25+ year Ag Pilot with 9,000+ ag time looking for a Seat for 2012 Season in the Mid West. Has Herbicide exp. and Turbine time agflyer11@hotmail.com or call 813-395-2990 (03-12)

help wanted A progressive Eastern Colorado Company looking for a full time pilot. Must have herbicide experience. We are flying a 2010 S2R T34/510 Thrush. Must have turbine time, and could work into a long term position for the right person.

Contact Tim @ 719-348-5799 (0 3 -12) Texas panhandle operation looking for full time pilot. Must have herbicide experience. Currently flying a Garrett Thrush so turbine time is required. Long term position available for right person. Send resume/information to whiteface@wtrt. net or P.O. Box 433, Hereford, TX. 79045.

(0 3 -12) Immediate full time position for entry level or experienced A&P/IA mechanic to maintain Turbine AgCat and Air Tractor aircraft. Business is located in Southwest LA. Pay commensurate with AG experience. Fax resumes to 337-753-2518 or call 337-753-2569.

(0 3 -12)

Pilot needed for AT-802 Fire (SEAT) must have experience. AG experience imperative. Send resume: 802 pilot C/O AgAir Update PO Box 850 Perry Ga 31069 or email blindads@agairupdate.com subject 802 pilot or fax 478987-1836 ATTn: 802 pilot (0 3 -12) Best Classified Buy In The Industry.

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seat wanted Ag piot with/without R44. 11,000 hr.TT FW/RW qualified Bell 47/206 Rob. R44 C-188 AT-502 AT-301 Geared nose. Former owner/operator multi-state multi aircraft operator.Timber, row crop, herbicides, Management ETC. Would prefer Helicopter Timber but will consider all. Your references will be checked also maxairhelicopters@yahoo.com Call 337-802-4209 (03-12)

Experienced AG or fire suppression pilot for rotation employment in Colombia. Minimum requirements: 2000 fixed wing hours; 1000 flt hours AG or fire suppression; FAA Cass II Medical; Must speak to ACTFL Intermediate Low or IRL Level 1 Spanish proficiency. Background check required. E-mail resume to: EASTResume@ginl.state.gov.

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Provincial Airways in Moose Jaw, SK, Canada is looking for an experienced hard working ag pilot for the 2012 season. james@provincialairways.net (0 3 -12) Resumes are now being accepted for A&P, welders and sheet metal workers to build and repair ag aircraft located in western Nebraska. Fax resumes to 308-368-5503 or send to Hershey Flying Service P.O. Box 215 Hershey, NE. 69143 (01-13) HELP WANTED!! Southern Colorado Operation looking for AT-301 pilot. Herbicide experience a must. May through late September. Location Monte Vista MVI. Call Art 719-8523241 (0 3 -12) IA and A&P mechanics needed. Call 870-295-6213 Salary depending on qualifications and experience t f n Central Nebraska operation seeking an experienced pilot to fill a permanent position. Only qualified pilots with previous herbicide experience and turbine time will be considered.

Must have a minimum of 3 references. Great seat and great pay with a leading independent operation. Mail Responses to: Central NE operation C/O AgAir Update Po Box 850 Perry GA 31069 email: blindads@agairupdate.com subject: Central NE fax 478-987-1836 subject: Central NE (03-12) Resumes accepted to fill A&P position, 30 Miles SW of Houston, TX, PT6 and Air Tractor exp.a plus, IA a plus, fax: 281-232-5401, email: glane@laneav.com T F N

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international advertiser index Acorn Welding...................................... 42A Ag - Nav, Inc. ..........................................3A Air Tractor Inc....................................... 23A Airforce Turbine Service..................... 26A American AgViation............................ 42A Apollo Spray Systems.................... 22,32A ASI Jet Sales.......................................... 28A Auto-Cal, Inc..........................................19A Blue Diamond Turbine Service......... 34A Collins Aircraft Dynamics, Inc...........31A Covington Aircraft Engines............... 44A Desser Tire & Rubber Co................... 29A DynaNav......................................... 19, 33A Frost Flying.............................................41A FireBoss.....................................................7A GE Aviation - Walter Engines............ 18A Gulf Coast Ag Aircraft SS.................. 36A Hemisphere GPS.................................. 27A Hershey Flying Service........................ 32A J & C Enterprises, Inc......................... 43A Johnston Aircraft Service, Inc........... 38A Lane Aviation, Inc................................ 39A Machida Borescopes........................... 29A Micron Sprayers Limited.................... 33A Mid - Continent Aircraft Corp...........17A NAA Museum....................................... 35A Orsmond Aerial Spray Pty. Ltd......... 36A Preferred Airparts................................ 40A ProTank................................................... 34A Queen Bee Air Specialties................. 25A Simplex................................................... 25A Sky Tractor Supply Co......................... 29A Southeastern Aircraft...........................37A Souther Field Aviation, Inc................. 38A Spectrum Electrostatic Sprayers........17A Speed Agro SRL.....................................24A Sun Air Parts......................................... 42A Thrush Aircraft Inc........................2A, 40A TracMap NZ LTD..................................21A Transland .............................................. 30A Tulsa Aircraft Engines......................... 20A Turbine Conversions Limited............. 20A Turbines Inc........................................... 16A Universal Turbine Parts Div................31A

March 2012

43A

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