Volume 42, Number 1 JANUARY 2024
A G
A V I A T I O N ’ S
M A G A Z I N E
2023 Ag Aviation Expo
Shines in Palm Springs HIGH EMPTY POCKETS NEVER UNDERSTANDING AND COMBATING | | FIVES HELD ANYONE BACK AIRCRAFT CORROSION
Nothing lasts forever. But a well-maintained Air Tractor comes close. Perform all recommended maintenance and required inspections.
MAINTENANCE MATTERS
2 | agairupdate.com
PLATINUM LITE
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agairupdate.com W W W. AG N A V . C O M| 3
IN THIS ISSUE 12
Volume 42, Number 1 JANUARY 2024
P.O. Box 850 • Perry, GA 31069 USA 475 Myrtle Field Rd. • Perry, GA 31069 USA PHONE / Fax: 478-987-2250 aau@marsaylmedia.com • agairupdate.com AgAir Update is a Marsayl Media Publication
PRESIDENT: Graham Lavender - graham@marsaylmedia.com VICE-PRESIDENT: Bill Lavender - bill@agairupdate.com SECRETARY: Sandy Lavender - sandy@agairupdate.com ACCOUNTING: Casey L. Armstrong - casey@marsaylmedia.com ADVERTISING: Melanie Woodley - melanie@marsaylmedia.com CLASSIFIED ADS: classifieds@agairupdate.com Melanie Woodley - melanie@marsaylmedia.com PRODUCTION: Daniela Constantino - daniela@marsaylmedia.com CIRCULATION: subs@agairupdate.com Mary Jane Virden - maryjane@marsaylmedia.com
2023 Ag Aviation Expo Shines in Palm Springs.
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Ted Delanghe - ted.delanghe@gmail.com Robert Craymer - robertc@covingtonaircraft.com Regina Farmer - regina.farmer@chem-man.com Carlin Lawrence - carlin@agairupdate.com Ryan Mason - ryan@agairupdate.com Michelle Miller - michelle@thefarmbabe.com Josh Alameda - josh.alameda@gmail.com Tracy Thurman - thurmantracyt@gmail.com
FEATURE 36
High Fives
44
Pratt & Whitney Canada Marks 60 Years of the Purpose Driven
LATIN AMERICAN REPS: Noelia Burgeus - noeliburgues@gmail.com Ernesto Franzen - ernesto@agairupdate.com Guillermo Giordana - aravia@aravia.com.ar Gina Hickmann - gina@agairupdate.com Pat Kornegay - pat@svatx.com Ivan Parra - ivan@agairupdate.com Marcia Specht - marcia.specht@gmail.com
PT6 Engine Family 48
Empty Pockets Never Held Anyone Back
60
Understanding and Combating Aircraft Corrosion
72
Lowell Hicks, TX, Passes
74
Sharon Watkins, Long-time Mid-Continent Aircraft Representative, Passes
IN EVERY ISSUE 06
From the Cockpit | Bill Lavender
08
Calendar of Events | See What’s Happening
40
Spreading the Facts | Michelle Miller
54
Craymer’s Counsel | Robert Craymer
64
20 Years Ago | Tri-Rotor lights the Arizona desert
76
Wing and a Prayer | Carlin Lawrence
78
Drake’s Perspective | Drake Martin
80
NTSB Reports | Accident Synopses
82
Low and Slow | Mabry I. Anderson
85
Classifieds | Get Serious About Selling
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Volume 42, Number 1 JANUARY 2024
A G
A V I A T I O N ’ S
M A G A Z I N E
2023 Ag Aviation Expo
Shines in Palm Springs HIGH EMPTY POCKETS NEVER UNDERSTANDING AND COMBATING | | AIRCRAFT CORROSION FIVES HELD ANYONE BACK
On the cover: 2023 Ag Aviation Expo Shines in Palm Springs.
© Copyright 2024 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 Marsayl Media, 475 Myrtle Field Road, Perry, GA 31069 for $39 USD for one year in the U.S.; International rates are $65 USD for one year. Periodical postage paid at Perry, Georgia and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to P.O. Box 850, Perry, GA 31069. AgAir Update, a multiple-award winning publication, is published in three languages and distributed world-wide. AgAir Update is a proud member of:
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Text "THRUSH" to 22828 to receive email updates from us.
agairupdate.com | 5
FROM THE COCKPIT
Bill Lavender bill@agairupdate.com
Another Year, Another Season I trust everyone had a fantastic Christmas holiday. All was good with my family; we should all be thinking about the loved ones that have left us this past year. The holidays can be extra challenging for their families and friends. It doesn't get any easier for them with the beginning of a new year. And here it is, another new year, 2024. It is incredible how fast time has passed since the beginning of the millennium 24 years ago; for that matter, the passing speed of the last decade. Speaking of time (and a little self-promotion), I was in the office in late December and received a surprise visit from the FAA. (What!!) He was there to surprise me with a token for 50 years of flying, which I achieved in August of 2023: the Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award. I can't believe it's been 50 years since I first soloed. He brought with him every record the FAA had on file for me, starting from the initial application I filled out in 1973 to get my Private. Did I see you in Palm Springs, California, last month? I was fortunate to see many of you at NAAA's Ag Aviation Expo. For those of you who were unable to attend, you missed a great time, both educational and fun! You can always visit www. agairupdate.com to see a photo review of it. One of this year's convention highlights was Lane Aviation purchasing the P&WC PT6A-34AG at the Live Auction,
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which has always been a great fundraiser for NAAA. The NAAHOF Karaoke fundraiser showcased some interesting acts, the Welcome Reception, held outside amongst the static displays, PWC's Customer Appreciation Reception, complete with live music around the pool, and an impressive awards banquet that recognized the best of the best in ag aviation. Rod Thomas (Idaho) may even be preparing for an epic legal battle with the Louisiana group! In closing, Graham and I will attend many state shows in 2024. For those of you I missed seeing in Palm Springs, maybe we can visit at a state show. After the state shows, the dreary days of winter start coming to an end. For most, the start of a new season will be right around the corner. So, during this winter, enjoy your break from flying. Catch up on your rest and review your equipment's condition; replace or fix? Create a winning strategy for your livelihood. 2024 is going to be a banner year for everybody! Until next month, Keep Turning…
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agairupdate.com | 7
CALENDAR OF EVENTS agairupdate.com/calendar
January 5-7, 2024 Arkansas AAA Convention
January 14-16, 2024 Northeast AAA Convention
January 26, 2024 SC AAA
February 19-21, 2024 Nebraska ATA Convention
Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort 2705 Central Avenue Hot Springs, AR 71901 Katherine Holmstrom katherine@araaa.org 501-503-3310
Wyndham Gettysburg Gettysburg, PA Ed Carter businessoffice@northeastaaa.org (609) 820-7987
Conway, SC (KHYW) Shanda Allen flyallen@sccoast.net 843-358-3583
Younes Conference Center North Kearney, NE Taylor Moore taylor@youraam.com 531-289-8323
January 8-10, 2024 Louisiana AAA Convention
Golden Nugget Casino Lake Charles, LA Kim Brown LAAGAVIATION@outlook.com (225) 436-3199 laaaonline.com January 8, 2024 Arizona AAA Meeting & PAASS Program
Custom Farm Service Hangar Stanfield, AZ Brittany Armstrong barmstrong@agairusa.com (520) 705-9692 January 8-11, 2024 Air Tractor Aircraft Maintenance Familiarization Course
Olney, TX Brian Hahn bhahn@airtractor.com January 10-12, 2024 Texas AAA Convention
Omni Corpus Christie Corpus Christi, TX Chris Shields cshields@thetexascapitol.com (512) 658-8161 January 10-12, 2024 Missouri AAA Convention
Cape Girardeau, MO Eric Blair ericb802@yahoo.com (573) 283-5590
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January 15-16, 2024 Oklahoma AAA Convention
February 5-7, 2024 Southeast Aero Cultural Fair (SEAF)
Embassy Suites Norman, OK Sandy Wells sandy@okaaa.org (405) 431-0381
The Island Resort Fort Walton Beach, FL Ashley Houston aehouston81@gmail.com 270-293-3843
January 17, 2024 Ohio AAA Meeting
February 6-7, 2024 Tri-State Aerial Applicators Convention
TJ Willey’s Tiffin, OH Brian Gibbs gibbsaerospray@gmail.com (419) 332-1724 January 18-20, 2024 Mississippi AAA Convention
Beau Rivage Resort & Casino Biloxi, MS Vicki Morgan vickimorgan@msaaa.com (662) 299-7836 January 22-24, 2024 Association of Montana Aerial Applicators Convention
Heritage Inn Great Falls, MT Alyssa Stromberg alyssastromberg16@gmail.com (406) 480-3965 January 24-26, 2024 New Mexico AAA Convention
Inn at the Mountain Gods Resort Mescalero, NM United States Seaver Tate seavtate@gmail.com 575-799-2504
The Park Event Center Waite Park, MN 56387 Theresa Stieren tambroz@aol.com 952-226-5874 February 11-13, 2024 North Carolina AAA Convention
Hilton Greenville 207 Greenville Blvd SE Greenville, NC 27834 Hugh Cundiff hacundiff@liberty.edu 910-592-6537 February 12-15, 2024 Air Tractor Aircraft Maintenance Familiarization Course
Olney, TX Brian Hahn bhahn@airtractor.com February 16-18, 2024 NAAA & NAAREF Feb. 2024 Board Meetings
Hilton Old Town Alexandria, VA United States Lauren Henretty Lhenretty@agaviation.org (202) 546-5722
February 29-March 2, 2024 Canadian AAA Conference
Fairmont Banff Springs Banff, AB Canada Shara Tardif ed@ canadianaerialapplicators.com 780-413-0078 October 10-12, 2024 NAAA & NAAREF Oct. 2024 Board Meetings
DoubleTree Chattanooga Chattanooga, TN Lauren Henretty Lhenretty@agaviation.org Phone: (202) 546-5722 November 18-21, 2024 2024 Ag Aviation Expo
Fort Worth Convention Center Fort Worth, TX United States Lauren Henretty lhenretty@agaviation.org Phone: 202-546-5722
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Blade tip vortices captured in Queensland, Australia. Photo by @hyltontaylor on Instagram.
Air Tractor and support vehicle, captured. Photo by @gulfstreamchris on Instagram.
Forward facing Ag Cat captured. Photo by @jo_jo_richard on Instagram.
The Heli Team Huey waiting for its next spray during the 2023 corn run. Photo by @theheliteam on Instagram.
The very rare Zlin Z-37 Cmelak in spray configuration. Photo by @tudonivelado on Instagram. 10 | agairupdate.com
The Cessna 188 hard at work at Amable Calle Guiterrez Airport. Photo by @kerbi_sarmiento on Instagram.
AGAV PICS
The KA-26 at work in Hungary. Photo by @kamovrider on Instagram.
An overhead view captured from another aircraft at speed. Photo by @aviacion_agricola_guatemalteca on Instagram.
Rainbows off the wing in Tully, Queensland. Photo by @hyltontaylor on Instagram.
A humid day produces this effect. Photo by @tudonivelado on Instagram.
Straight on with the Air Tractor. Photo by @lauralong_photography on Instagram.
Banking in the two seater. Photo by @david__shved on Instagram.
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2023 Ag Aviation Expo
Shines in Palm Springs via NAAA Staff. Edited by AgAir Update Staff Attendees and exhibitors at NAAA’s 2023 Ag Aviation Expo couldn’t have asked for better weather, scenery, education, networking and friendship in Palm Springs, California in early December. The expo hosted nearly 1,300 attendees and exhibitors from around the globe eager to network with friends and peers, educate themselves at 26 education sessions and improve their businesses by visiting with exhibitors on the trade show floor.
A fixture of the convention, the 2023 Live Auction raised funds to support NAAA programs and services. The association stated its continued appreciation for all of the companies and individuals that support NAAA programs by donating an auction item. The NAAA also offered a special thank you to Pratt & Whitney Canada for donating a Best Tug aircraft tug and a brand-new PT6A-34AG engine.
The show was a success thanks to stellar programming, a lively auction, outstanding exhibitors and a beautiful setting in Palm Springs, which hosted the Ag Aviation Expo for the first time.
The NAAA convention featured 37 companies sponsoring different events and items throughout the show, including Diamond sponsors BASF, Corteva Agriscience, Pratt & Whitney Canada, Syngenta and UPL.
The NAAA Trade Show featured 143 exhibitors with an Air Tractor and Thrush Aircraft outside the facility and three helicopters inside the Palm Springs Convention Center. This year’s convention numbered nearly 1,300 attendees and booth personnel registered for the 2023 Ag Aviation Expo. 12 | agairupdate.com
Many great sessions took place during the week, including the Kickoff Breakfast and General Session, and below is an overview of several sessions.
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Kickoff Breakfast The Expo opened on Monday with a Kickoff Breakfast address by Burt Rutan, famed aerospace entrepreneur and spacecraft designer, who has developed 49 types of manned (unclassified) aircraft. As part of his keynote addres, Rutan mentioned his first solo in an Aeronca Model 7 Champion on his 16th birthday in 1959. Rutan founded his first company in 1974 and his second company, Scale Composites, in 1984, which he retired from in 2011. About 30% of Scale Composite’s work is classified, but Rutan stated that he is very proud of the national security projects they accomplished. “My exposure to ag aviation was early on and I learned how to fly the Aeronca Champ at an airport where many cropdusting planes flew out of,” stated Rutan. “There were many Stearmanns and the accident rate at that time was horrific. I learned about the industry’s current fatality statistics and calculated that the industry has lost about three-tenths of one percent, which is a reasonable risk that people take.” Rutan developed his only ag aircraft, the Model 120 Predator in 1984 and unfortunately, it was the only one built because the customer crashed the prototype. The Predator wing was optimized for canard down/up wash, which is a wing configuration in which a small forewing or foreplane is placed forward of the main wing of a fixed-wing aircraft, there was a jump seat behind the pilot, the structure was corrosion-resisting and the engine was a Lycoming 0-720 eight-cylinder 400 BHP. Rutan went on to discuss his aircraft Voyager, the first non-stop and non-refueled world flight in 1986, and SpaceShipOne, the first non-government manned spaceflight, which was funded by Paul Allen, co-founder of Microsoft. Both now hang in the Smithsonian Air & Space Museum in Washington, DC. SpaceShipOne won the $10 million Ansari X-Prize, the competition created to spur the development of affordable space tourism. SpaceShipOne claimed victory as the first privately developed spacecraft to reach the boundary of space, which is 100 kilometers, twice in five days. The craft was hand-flown and simple to fly, but Rutan stated the biggest challenge was building a motor for SpaceShipOne. The flight time on SpaceShipOne was about an hour, with most of it climbing and about fifteen minutes gliding back down to the ground.
2023 “Ag Wings of Tomorrow” Scholarships Awarded Also during the kickoff breakfast, sponsorships were awarded by BASF and Thrush Aircraft who co-sponsored the 2023 14 | agairupdate.com
NAAA “Ag Wings of Tomorrow” Scholarship program. Thanks to their generous support, the NAAA awarded scholarships of $5,000 each to the four aspiring ag pilots Macy Arbuckle of Vinton, Iowa, and Mark Noe of Noe Aviation LLC in Vinton, Iowa. Scholarships were also awarded to Max Gschwendtner of Pontiac, Illinois, sponsored by Scott Petersen of Pontiac Flying Service in Pontiac, Illinois, Delfino Martinez of Brownsville, Texas, sponsored by Pat Kornegay of Sun Valley Aviation in San Benito, Texas and Saint-Andre Roux of Seneca, Kansas, sponsored by Scott Heinen of Heinen Bros Agra Services in Seneca, Kansas
General Session Tuesday’s General Session explored the EPA’s pesticide policymaking process, adjuvants and mentoring new pilots into the industry. Ed Messina, Director of EPA’s Office of Pesticide Programs (OPP) presented about EPA’s work with (re)registering pesticides and labeling them for aerial use. Messina discussed the agency’s work with NAAA and other associations on how EPA can improve the accuracy of their risk assessment by incorporating drift reduction technologies into its risk assessments. If EPA can be more precise about risk assessments, more products can be approved and used. Also featured in the general session was speaker Terry Kippley, President of the Council of Producers and Distributors of Agrotechnology (CPDA), who spoke about the importance of adjuvant use and how adjuvants can enhance a pesticide’s performance and can improve the properties of the spray mixture. He discussed the CPDA’s adjuvant certification program and the scrutiny these approved products must undergo to be certified under the program.
Sessions After the general session, the NAAA featured dozens of sessions for ag pilots on a variety of topics including safe operation of aircraft, vendor lead sessions on specific aircraft and technology within the industry and multiple sessions centered on safety as the NAAA continues on its mission to reduce accidents within the ag aviation insdustry through outreach programs and educational inititatives
Transland Breakfast This longstanding staple to the Ag Aviation Expo provided both sustenance and substantive updates to those in attendance. The Satloc Falcon system was the star of the show, not only as their newest project, but as the integration hub for many of their other products such as the electric Wingman and gate box. The Transland crew reported positive feedback from applicators on currently fielded units and expressed enthusiasm for the continued development of
features such as AIMMS-directed swath offsets, integration with Micronair rotary atomizer sensors and the addition of Canadian legal land descriptions to the mapping interface.
The course covers a variety of subjects all focused on the single mission of helping ag aviators avoid hitting wires and other obstructions.
Support Committee Athena Presentation
NAAA Annual Awards Banquet
The 2023-2024 Athena presentation focused on how to maintain both the physical and mental health of pilots as well as their families. Just like the prop on a high-capacity turbine ag airplane, there are five “blades” to propel health and wellness. Each blade must be attended to, to ensure pilots stay healthy, not only during the season, but yearround.
As with previous years, the annual convention was concluded with the awards banquet headed by MC’s Rod Thomas and Eric Klindt who lead the presentation with their unique banter and comedy that has been a staple of the conventions annual banquet event for many years.
Relationship Drift Session This year’s Relationship Drift session took a different approach and instead of dividing operators/pilots from spouses and/or office crew into separate rooms to ask the same questions, Dominique Youakim of Aerinova Aerial in Mattoon, IL presented the DISC profile and how it can benefit relationships and communication. In addition to Youakim’s work as an ag pilot and operator, he is also a certified DISC facilitator. The DISC profile is a behavioral assessment tool that helps individuals understand their behavioral tendencies in various situations.
Flying In The Wire & Obstruction Environment Course After the overwhelmingly positive feedback from the 2022 Ag Aviation Expo addition of this course into the yearly convention,, Robert “Bob” A. Feerst, President of Utilities / Aviation Specialists Inc., was brought back to teach a full day Flying in the Wire and Obstruction Environment Course.
The annual banquet also paid homage to outgoing president Craig Craft, who passed the gavel to incoming president Ray Newcombe with the passing of the ceremonial gavel and the presentation by NAAA Executive Director Andrew Moore to Craig Craft of his framed magazine cover to celebrate his year of service as the president of the organization, along with recognizing the service of multiple past presidents in attendance in the audience. In addition to the annual presidential transfer duties, the industry paid tribute to eleven award winners in attendance with the presentation of plaques to celebrate their achievements within the industry. The annual convention was another successful show for the NAAA, hosting for the first time in Palm Springs, which was well received by attendees, vendors and visitors to the show as many escaped the colder climates from the northern states for the California centered event. The next convention will no doubt be another highly anticipated event as the convention heads to Fort Worth, Texas in 2024. agairupdate.com | 15
Karaoke for PAASS
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Welcome Reception
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Sessions
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Sessions
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No matter if you’re a single aircraft operator or a fleet operator, we have a solution to suit your budget. From one-off overhaul or repair events to maintenance agreements and Power-by-the-Hour programs, we’re here to support your business. Talk to us about how we can cater for your next scheduled or unscheduled event. Bruce Hubler, Sales Manager 1+208-250-8482 Bruce.hubler@taeaerospace.com William Wilson, Field Service and Technical Support 1+682-888-4775 William.wilson@taeaerospace.com Mario Chavez 1+706-993-0898 mario.chavez@taeaerospace.com
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Sessions
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Exhibit Hall
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Exhibit Hall
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Exhibit Hall
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Exhibit Hall
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Live Auction
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Pratt & Whitney Canada Reception
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NAAA Annual Awards Banquet
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NAAA Annual Awards Banquet
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Ag Aviation Golf Tournament – Over $9,000 Raised! Thank you to everyone who participated and helped make the 2023 Ag Aviation Golf Tournament a huge success! It was a perfect fall weekend in Arkansas and everyone had a wonderful time! There was a great turnout and we were able to make a $8,000 donation to the Charles Stokes Memorial Scholarship and a $1,000 donation to the Austin Scrogin Memorial Agricultural Aviation Scholarship at Delta State. A special thanks go to the golf tournament committee comprised of Brenda Watts, Lathan Busby, Bryant Otto and Michael Hutchins! They did a wonderful job planning an exceptional event!
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High Fives The only monotonous thing about the aviation industry is the constant change. by Ted Delanghe This quote from aviation pioneer and Delta Air Lines founder Collett Everman “C.E.” Woolman reflected his working philosophy of creativity in concert with precise design guidelines. He collaborated with B.R. Coad, a government entomologist, in developing the concept for an aircraft specifically designed to suit the needs of a rapidly expanding ag aviation industry. First produced in 1925, the HuffDaland Duster, nicknamed the “Puffer,” featured several innovative design features, including a cantilever wing design and a hopper built into the fuselage behind the pilot. 36 | agairupdate.com
In many ways, the Puffer was the forerunner of many “cropdusters” to follow and is worthy of a ‘high five’ tribute. From that small beginning, agricultural aviation has become a significant contributor to producing the world’s food supply, with innovation being part and parcel of the new industry. As 2024 rolls in and winter puts a temporary hold on agriculture, it’s time to take a well-deserved break in the action and highlight the hard work that went into ag aviation operations throughout the past year as a reminder of the vital importance ag aviation is to ensuring quality harvests with
bountiful yields. According to a 2021 brief published by the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, without the use of pesticides from both aircraft and ground rigs, there would be a 78% loss of fruit production, a 54% loss of vegetable production, and a 32% loss of cereal production. Those who till the land know firsthand the staggering damage that can happen when weeds and other pests are allowed to flourish, so a first high five to the farmers who take it upon themselves to produce the best crops possible, often in the face of erratic weather patterns, rising input costs, stresses from disease, and competition from abroad. Farming is not only a profession but also a way of life. As the American humorist Will Rogers once quipped: “A farmer has to be an optimist, or he wouldn’t still be a farmer.” I can still vividly recall my father’s worry when torrential rains washed away half our vegetable crops, and just as vividly, I remember the pride he took in producing bumper crops in better times. Kudos to the countless agronomists, chemists, and other scientists who study crops from coast to coast, north and south, from the lush orchards of California to the vast grain
fields in the Midwest. Because of their studies and research, in the past half-century, we’ve seen pesticides become friendlier and less persistent in the environment while becoming much more effective and target-oriented. A salute to the NAAA as the voice of the aerial application industry in promoting safety and professionalism and working in concert with industry regulators to develop practical and productive regulations. And ditto to the many state associations that carry on similar work at the state level. A particular nod to the Professional Aerial Applicators Support System (PAASS), developed by the NAAA to educate pilots about safety, security, and drift mitigation. In addition, the NAAA works with the federal government to invest in the research and development of technologies that enhance the efficacy of aerial application operations. A sincere thanks to the ground support crews that mix, load, refuel and clean the aircraft, often overlooked as the aircraft and pilot tend to take center stage. Successful aerial application takes a true team effort, where knowledge and dedication at each stage of the operation are paramount. ➤
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agairupdate.com | 37
High fives to the many ag aviation company owners and operators at home and worldwide for providing timely, effective, and economical crop protection services. With the proven ability to treat large or remote areas rapidly, contributing to higher crop qualities and yields, aircraft are precious when excessive precipitation precludes the use of ground rigs. High fives to the regulatory agencies responsible for assessing environmental and human risks related to the safety of pesticides, including both active ingredients and product formulations. Together, they form a stringent regulatory system that ensures our food’s safety and environmental safety. Among these are the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), where nearly 900 scientists and program officials ensure that products are appropriately registered to comply with federal law, and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and state pesticide enforcement agencies. As standards and regulations continue to evolve with ongoing research, the result is that producers have access to crop protection products that are safer and more effective than ever before. Last but not least on our list of those deserving of high fives are the skilled pilots who work long hours to ensure 38 | agairupdate.com
safe, economical, and effective crop protection on cereals, cotton, orchards, legumes, corn, and other crops. From my first contact with the ag aviation industry decades ago, I have always been impressed by the knowledge and skills ag pilots regularly demonstrate while balancing day-today operational demands with a solid grounding in safe operations.
Feeding a Hungry World The ag aviation industry is essential in a lengthy production process from seeding to delivery to global markets. Amid a busy season where the action gets intense and there doesn’t seem to be enough time in a day to respond to urgent requests for aerial application, it’s good to remember that the result is feeding a hungry world. That focus has been there since the first known aerial application from fixed-wing aircraft occurred on August 3, 1921, by John Macready flying a Curtiss JN4 spreading lead arsenate to treat an infestation of caterpillars at a farm near Troy, Ohio. That event was undoubtedly deserving of a high-five acknowledgment. With innovations sure to come in nozzle design, aircraft, GPS, biotechnology, drones, and advances in pesticide control and performance, we will undoubtedly have many opportunities to witness and salute many more highfive events in the future.
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agairupdate.com | 39
SPREADING THE FACTS Michelle Miller - michelle@thefarmbabe.com
Committed to Sustainability? Animal Ag Certainly Is!
In today’s world, everyone is rightfully concerned about the environmental impacts of everyday activities. These concerns often extend to the food that we’re eating. There are still lots of myths and misconceptions surrounding animal agriculture’s role in environmental sustainability, but as a whole, the industry agrees that they can improve. This is why many animal agriculture sectors have made sustainability commitments. Animal agriculture only accounts for 4% of United States greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. When you think about it, that’s minimal when considering how much food animal agriculture provides for people worldwide. If all livestock were eliminated from the agriculture industry in the United States, greenhouse gas emissions would only drop by 2.6%. However, this would also increase the number of nutrient deficiencies. 40 | agairupdate.com
Let’s go through a few sectors of animal agriculture to learn more about their environmental commitments.
Dairy The dairy industry aims to achieve three goals by 2050. The goals are to achieve GHG neutrality, optimize water use while maximizing recycling, and improve water quality by optimizing the utilization of manure and nutrients. The dairy industry has created the U.S. Dairy Net Zero Initiative to accomplish this goal. This initiative was launched in 2020, represents over 30,000 U.S. dairy farms and is led by various dairy organizations. The Net Zero Initiative is currently running programs to work on soil and water regeneration, significantly reduce GHG emissions while increasing water quality, improve practices for producing cattle feed, improve feed efficiency, and is supporting a research initiative to develop a commercially viable solution to reducing methane emissions from dairy and beef cattle. ➤
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This last program, the Greener Cattle Initiative, looks at feed additives, animal genetics, feed reformulation and technology as possible solutions to reducing methane emissions. Together, dairy is working as a collective industry to meet its goals and continue to improve. Progress has already been made!
improve water quality by reducing nutrient run-off, managing manure, and protecting water areas around farms. They have also made significant progress on these goals and will keep working to improve.
Beef
Both the turkey and broiler chicken industries are also working towards improving sustainability! The broiler chicken industry’s main focuses are decreasing feed consumption and increasing feed efficiency, making genetic improvements, researching feed additives, improving fuel efficiency, and adopting more renewable energy sources. The broiler industry also takes a more individualized approach to sustainability by considering farmers’ regional differences instead of creating a “one size fits all” approach to accomplishing these goals. Like other industries, broilers have greatly improved, reducing GHG emissions by 18% from 2010 to 2020 and significantly decreasing water use. The turkey industry uses innovative technology to reduce environmental impact, increasing water and energy efficiency. Turkey growers are already using solar power, high-tech systems to monitor and control barns, and innovative water management systems.
United States beef is already the global leader in sustainable beef production but can still improve. That’s why beef has also adopted some sustainability goals. The goals for the U.S. cattle industry are climate-neutral cattle production by 2040, increased profitability and economic sustainability for cattle producers by 2025, enhanced trust in producers and creating resources in animal care and handling to improve animal well-being. Finally, U.S. cattle will continuously improve workforce safety and well-being. These goals came from the U.S. beef’s Sustainability Goals Task Force in 2021. Ranchers are already working towards these goals by protecting wildlife habitat, maintaining the health of native ecosystems, and using grazing management systems that sequester carbon. The industry is also working towards its economic and social sustainability goals. Like the dairy industry, U.S. beef has already made tremendous progress.
Pork The pork industry has committed to achieving goals for people, the environment, animal well-being, public health, food safety, and the community. While pork has made many goals, some of the more notable environmental objectives are to reduce GHG emissions by 2030 by 40% from a 2015 baseline, improve water efficiency, improve soil and biodiversity while restoring and protecting natural habitats, 42 | agairupdate.com
Poultry
Every area of animal agriculture (including aquaculture, egg production, sheep and goats, and others not listed here) is working hard to improve environmental sustainability. Through timely and specific sustainability commitments, animal ag is working to decrease GHG emissions, methane emissions, land use, and water use and increase feed efficiency. Improvements are made every day and will continue for many years to come!
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agairupdate.com | 43
Pratt & Whitney Canada Marks 60 Years of the Purpose Driven PT6 Engine Family With 64 thousand engines delivered over six decades, the PT6 continues to be the engine of choice for the general aviation and helicopter segments, helping make a positive social impact every day. LONGUEUIL, QUEBEC (December 12, 2023) – Pratt & Whitney, an RTX (NYSE: RTX) business, today celebrated the 60th anniversary of the reliable and versatile PT6 engine family, amassing more than 500 million hours on a broad variety of aircraft missions in every region around the world. Since Dec. 12, 1963, more than 64 thousand PT6 engines have been delivered to power nearly 21 thousand aircraft, fostering a sense of connectivity and community wherever they fly. “For six decades, the game-changing innovation and versatility of the PT6 engine has served as a foundation for industrywide achievement and modernization in general aviation, powering 155 different aircraft,” said Maria Della Posta, president of Pratt & Whitney Canada. “The PT6 is living proof how of one product, and our team of people who make it possible, continue to positively impact the industry year after year. Its global reach consistently makes it the engine of choice for the markets and missions it serves.” Operators continue to leverage the PT6 engine family to achieve a variety of missions. Here are just a few examples of its impact: Firefighting: PT6-powered, single-engine firefighting aircraft are both productive and precise, helping extinguish forest fires around the world at a time when the number and intensity of wildfires is increasing globally. Agricultural application (Ag): When the PT6 engine team began designing engines for this market, it boosted productivity by 60% over the piston engines it replaced. Since then, eight PT6A engine models have been designed for ag aviation. Emergency Medical Services: Whether powering fixedwing aircraft or helicopters, the PT6 engine has long been
44 | agairupdate.com
the go-to power source for Emergency Medical Services organizations, helping ensure their life-saving missions are met with success. Humanitarian Missions: Carrying humanitarian aid to remote villages using a dirt runway or shuttling life-saving vaccines to rural communities, PT6-powered aircraft are an important element in a global distribution network. Pilot Training: PT6-powered trainer aircraft have been used for more than four decades to train future pilots who go on to play critical roles in defending freedom. Through constant collaboration with its airframe manufacturers, Pratt & Whitney Canada continues to lead with innovation. The recently launched PT6 E-Series™ is the first engine in general aviation to feature a dual-channel integrated electronic propeller and engine control system. The technology provides an overall more intuitive way of flying with simplified operations, control systems, and data intelligence. Read more about Pratt & Whitney’s history of innovation here, as it marks a milestone year, achieving over 1 billion flying hours.
About Pratt & Whitney Pratt & Whitney is a world leader in the design, manufacture and service of aircraft engines and auxiliary power units. To learn more, visit www.prattwhitney.com.
About RTX RTX is the world's largest aerospace and defense company. Our global team of 180,000 employees pushes the limits of known science and redefines how we connect and protect our world. We are advancing aviation, building smarter defense systems and creating innovations to take us deeper into space. Effective July 1, the company will complete its realignment into three customer-focused business units — Collins Aerospace, Raytheon and Pratt & Whitney. The company, with 2022 sales of $67 billion, is headquartered in Arlington, Virginia.
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agairupdate.com | 45
Valley Air Crafts Buys Johnston Aircraft Service Tulare, California – Long-time Air Tractor dealer Valley Air Crafts has acquired Johnston Aircraft Service, both located at Mefford Field Airport (TLR) in Tulare, California. "Valley Air Crafts and Johnston Aircraft Service have served our respective customers right here at Mefford Field. Now that both companies are under the same management, we are retaining the same personnel, same parts availability, and shop capabilities," reports Michael Schoenau, owner and president of Valley Air Crafts. "As these two companies consolidate their resources, I believe we can provide even better sales, service and parts for our customers here in Tulare, California as well as those throughout the Northwest U.S." Since 1984 Valley Air Crafts has been a well-known resource for California's Central Valley aerial applicators. In 1996 it became an Air Tractor authorized service center. In 2005 it became an Air Tractor dealer. In 2019, the company expanded its Air Tractor territory beyond California to include Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington. "Expert service, aircraft sales, and responsive parts support has built our reputation. Now, we are pleased to combine our expertise with Johnston Aircraft Service customers and to earn their trust and business," says Schoenau. Johnston Aircraft Service has served ag aviators and general aviation flyers since 1947,” adds Schoenau. “Dave Johnston has been a strong presence in California’s ag aviation community for generations," says Schoenau. The company began by modifying post-war surplus Stearman biplanes for aerial application. Business steadily grew through the
46 | agairupdate.com
1960’s and 1970’s as Johnston Aircraft Service became a dealer/distributor for several ag aircraft manufacturers. "We are grateful that we’ve found an opportunity to carry on this business and Dave’s legacy,” Schoenau added. Schoenau will oversee the current operations of Johnston Aircraft Service. Dave Johnston will also remain a presence at the company for a time, helping with a smooth transition and ensuring continuity in service and operational efficiency. “I’ll stay for awhile to assist and advise Michael,” says Johnston. “He’s going to gain some good employees with this deal. But Johnston adds that he’s ready for a change of pace. “There are places my wife and I want to go and see. We want to visit our children. I was a hot rodder in my earlier years, and who knows? I may do a little of that again.” Johnston believes that Valley Air Crafts is in a good position. “There’s a good future in the ag aviation business. There really is. It looks to me like Air Tractor is going to own the future as far as ag aviation goes. So, for Michael, this all should work out well.” As Valley Air Crafts and Johnston Aircraft Service join forces, aviators in the skies above Tulare and the Central Valley of California can expect stronger service and aviation support that supports the local economy and sets the stage for continued growth and innovation. For more information, visit the Valley Air Crafts website: thevalleyaircrafts.com.
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agairupdate.com | 47
Empty Pockets Never Held Anyone Back
48 | agairupdate.com
by Josh Rittenberry The old saying by Norman Vincent Peale that “empty pockets never held anyone back” is finished with “Only empty heads and empty hearts can do that.” Lindsay Chandler has neither an empty head nor an empty heart, but he will be the first to attest that he isn’t a stranger to empty pockets. And for empty pockets, he is grateful. Growing up in Northeast Arkansas, Lindsay Chandler was immersed in agriculture; his family was the proprietors of Chandler & Chandler Farms in Wilson, AR. His interest in aviation arose in high school when he started taking flying lessons paid for by his mom, Tricia Chandler after she took a second job to cover the cost. Lessons with Mike Schuncke at Osceola Aerial Service began earnestly, with Lindsay intending only to get his Private License. However, as he flew, he also farmed and concluded that, like many farmeroperators, he could utilize his flying skills to treat crops on the family farm. To get his Commercial License, Lindsay bought an Ag Cat, but the old yellow bird was relegated to storage on the farm property for two years, which changed everything. Jerry, Jeffrey, and Mark Price of D&F Flying Service encouraged Lindsay to move the Ag Cat to their strip so they could show him the ropes and perhaps put him to work. After much training, Lindsay earned his Commercial License and continued working for D&F Flying Service. He transitioned from the Ag Cat to a Turbine Ag Cat and then an AT502. “That’s when it all ramped up,” Lindsay remembers. In the winter of 2011, an ample opportunity presented itself. Lindsay jumped at the chance to buy Pruitt Flying Service, a well-established operation with its AT-502, but that also meant saying goodbye to D&F Flying Service and the individuals who had nurtured his skills. “I had never had a mentor until Jerry and Jeffrey Price came along. They were the key to my success, and I know I wouldn’t be where I am now without them.” On his own, Lindsay was assisted in his new operation by former owner Teddy Pruitt, who agreed to stay on and became another influential mentor as Lindsay found his footing. With one loader and a newly hired pilot, Lindsay focused on groundwork and customer relations early on, aspects of the flying service business he had never dealt with and needed to learn quickly. The new operation took off with immediate success, adding two AT802s in addition to the two AT502s already running.
Further growth followed in the next few years with the acquisition of Bright Flying Service and an AT602. “We had a large fleet but a lot more work. That’s where things started to change.” At the pinnacle of his professional career, when a business owner should be reaping the rewards, Lindsay began to experience what it was like to take on too much too soon. “When I bought a fourth airplane, I was on a downturn and didn’t know it.” Eying the easiest solution before the bubble burst, Lindsay swapped airplanes to make his operation more streamlined with three AT802s. But even more dire straits were still to come. In back-to-back seasons, four of his largest customers invested in their own airplanes, wiping out four lucrative contracts from the books and leading Lindsay to question how long he could afford to stay in business. “I had gotten so big in business that I forgot my humble beginnings, so I panicked and did something an operator should never do: I cut prices. I did the wrong thing out of a necessity to survive. Cutting prices and buying business doesn’t do anything but hurt everybody.” In dire financial shape, Lindsay knew he would have to get rid of some debt. “Wade Castleberry wanted to get involved in the industry in some way. So he saved me by injecting money into the business to keep it going.” With fresh capital and a more manageable fleet, Lindsay was able to return his focus to managing interests on the ground, including repairing vital business relationships. The newest AT-802 was then traded for an H80 Turbine Thrush, which worked for the next three years until Lindsay realized that he needed more power and speed. With that, he traded the H80 for a 710 Turbine Thrush. “I fell in love with the Thrush immediately, and it continues to fit my operation well. Each Thrush we operate is stable, safe, and always does excellent work.” Today, the operation is thriving with the recent addition of a second 710 Thrush from Mid-Continent, which Lindsay describes as “a no-brainer since the first 710 worked out so well.” Lindsay shares flying duties with Steve Bright and Jerry Teague and is in the early stages of training a promising Ag pilot, Thomas Green. ➤ agairupdate.com | 49
In addition, lead ground crewman Brad Duty and secretary Donna Alvarado provide critical support. Lindsay’s wife, Michelle, is also a big part of what keeps the business going, as she oversees much of the complicated bookwork. Lindsay and Michelle are doting parents to Hazel, 9 and Birdie, 5, when they are not in business mode. “I have worked with some of the best pilots in the industry: Mike Schuncke, Jerry and Jeffrey Price, Steve Bright, Jerry Teague, but by far, the best thing that has ever happened to me was going broke. When I got that first taste of success, I was too big for my britches and became reckless professionally and personally. Being broke forced me to face the downside of success. Thankfully, I’ve had time to correct it.” 50 | agairupdate.com
More often than not, the result of being broke is having empty pockets. Before Lindsay could imagine all of the ups and downs of his career, he needed help purchasing his first Ag business, so he looked to his reliable dad, the late Gary Chandler, for help. Mr. Chandler invested as a silent partner until 2019. When Lindsay sat in a lawyer’s office to set up the legalities of the new business, including a name, he pondered a moment, then spouted out the first thing that came to his comical mind: Empty Pockets. And then he left. No one ever called the lawyer back to change the business to a more serious name; thus, Empty Pockets Flying Service was born. The business name Lindsay intended to be a joke was the saving grace that has never held him back.
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NZAero Debuts the 750XL Falco-MK2 Introducing the 750XL FALCO-MK2, the latest offering from NZAero, poised to revolutionize agricultural aviation. With its New Zealand roots growing from 08-600 Cresco, this aircraft evolved into the PAC750 utility aircraft and now, with the upgraded engine and performance, into the 750XL FALCO-MK2. The 750XL FALCO-MK2 introduces cutting-edge features, setting new industry standards: 1. XSTOL Capability – This Extreme Short Take-off and Landing aircraft outperforms the competition by operating from the shortest fields. 2. Rugged Tricycle Undercarriage: Confidently go where no other agricultural aircraft can operate with less training time for the flight crew. 3. Exceptional Manoeuvrability: Enjoy stable handling when fully loaded, ensuring safety and control at low speeds in a craft that can carry its weight and a 3000L hopper. 4. Fuel Efficiency: Operating more quietly and with a 10% reduction in fuel consumption than earlier models. Manufactured by NZAero, Cresco and its big brother, 750XL FALCO-MK2, are synonymous with dependability, durability,
and top-tier craftsmanship. Whether in agriculture, passenger transport, defense, firefighting, surveying, or surveillance, NZAero supports you in finding land possibilities anywhere your operation takes you. For more information, visit www.aerospace.co.nz or get in touch with us at aircraft@aerospace.co.nz
About NZAero: NZAero is the premier commercial aircraft manufacturer in New Zealand, known for producing and supporting robust, adaptable aircraft trusted worldwide. Innovation and quality define their legacy in the aviation industry.
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52 | agairupdate.com
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agairupdate.com | 53
CRAYMER’S COUNSEL
Robert Craymer - robertc@covingtonaircraft.com
Ag Aviation Expo Recap I had a fantastic time at the NAAA Convention in Palm Springs, CA. I saw and spoke with many of you while I was there. I also had some fantastic food and maybe a little fun. If you visit there, the tram to the top of the mountain is pretty cool. Some others visited Joshua Tree and told me it was awesome. I will try and give you some highlights of what was discussed at the convention. Peter Wilkinson gave some operational highlights and updates during the 1st day of the 8-hour Pratt & Whitney 54 | agairupdate.com
Canada session. Some of the most extensive discussions centered around the cost of the PT6A-140AG parts and the pricing discount structures being supplied. These discounts are not yet in the form of Commercial Support Programs, but soon will be. Another update on the 140AG is the release of Service Bulletin 1839. This SB allows for the use of AS3209 packings instead of ST6202 packings. This is for the fuel nozzles, flow divider and the bleed valve. Make sure to check out that service bulletin before making any changes. ➤
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During that same session, the PT6A-65AG and 67AG were also discussed. The previous requirement to replace C-flange T-bolts has been removed. There was also a commitment to continue the Commercial Support Program on the 2nd stage power turbine blades. Please let me know if you need further information about these items. You can also contact your Pratt & Whitney Canada Field Service Manager. 56 | agairupdate.com
One of the best updates was about upcoming overhaul manual updates. The previous prop strike criteria have been reviewed, and a return to determining work scope based on engine condition instead of propeller condition is set to happen. The manual revisions over the next six months or so will now include a decision tree to aid in determining what the work scope should consist of. ➤
268 pages • 5 eras • 10 decades • 34 Spotlight pieces • One heck of a story!
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Based on a collective history of the agricultural aviation industry sourced from Agricultural Aviation magazine, AgAir Update, Low & Slow and other materials, Agriculture’s Air Force chronicles the agricultural aviation industry’s growth from its infancy in 1921 through the boom times after World War II, and on to today’s modern era of high-tech aerial application.
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6/30/21 9:22 AM
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agairupdate.com | 57
There was also some discussion about commercial support for some affected components. As more information becomes available, I will pass it along.
also hot topics. The panel and the operators of the PT6s in the room were very engaged in the discussion of engine washing, types of oil and oil servicing, and engine operations.
Logan Simmons of Covington Aircraft led a radial engine session. He covered how the engine is constructed and best practices for maintenance and in-field repairs. Supply chain and parts issues and availability were discussed. There were also questions about the operation of the engine. Everyone who attended received a detailed engine overview booklet from Covington Aircraft.
Overall, the experience was very informative. This convention also allows us to network with people we sometimes only get to talk with over the phone or via email. Hopefully, this information helps you if you could not attend this year. Start planning to attend the NAAA convention next year in Ft. Worth. Hopefully, I will see you there!
Finally, we also had a PT6A panel discussion. The standing-room-only crowd conversed with the panel led by P&WC - Peter Wilkinson, Standard Aero - Wendel Lambert, TAE - Will Wilson and Covington Aircraft Robert Craymer. The moderator for the panel was Fletcher Sharp. Best maintenance practices were the main topics of discussion. Fuel nozzle maintenance, borescope inspections and prop balancing were among some of the topics. Pratt and Whitney Canada commercial support items for the PT6A-140AG and the PT6A-67AG were
Robert Craymer has worked on PT6A engines and PT6Apowered aircraft for the past three decades, including the last 25+ years at Covington Aircraft. As a licensed A&P mechanic, Robert has held every job in an engine overhaul shop and has been an instructor of PT6A Maintenance and Familiarization courses for pilots and mechanics. Robert has been elected to the NAAA board as the Allied-Propulsion Board Member. Robert can be reached at robertc@ covingtonaircraft.com or 662-910-9899. Visit us at covingtonaircraft.com.
58 | agairupdate.com
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Understanding and Combating Aircraft Corrosion by Byron Yoder
Aircraft corrosion poses a significant challenge for all aviation industries. This article will dive into the causes, types, and prevention measures.
Understanding Aircraft Corrosion Corrosion occurs when metal reacts with its surrounding environment, resulting in the deterioration of its properties. The presence of moisture, oxygen, contaminants such as salt, iron, pollutants, and industrial chemicals accelerates corrosion. Aircraft corrosion is primarily attributed to atmospheric conditions, exposure to chemicals and the proximity to saltwater environments. Here are just a few examples.
Types of Aircraft Corrosion
Galvanic Corrosion Galvanic corrosion occurs when two dissimilar metals encounter an electrolyte, such as moisture or salt water. Due to the difference in their electrochemical potentials, one metal becomes anodic (Positive charge) and corrodes faster, while the other remains cathodic (Negative charge) and is comparatively protected. An example is exposed aircraft skin, where the surface protection has been depleted and comes into contact with dissimilar metals. Some products within the industry contain iron, and without a process to remove contamination when these dissimilar metals meet, depending on the length of time in contact, galvanic corrosion will occur.
Atmospheric Corrosion Stress Corrosion Cracking (SCC) Atmospheric corrosion arises from exposure to oxygen and moisture in the air. When aircraft are parked or stored outdoors, their surfaces are susceptible. The formation of rust on exposed metals is a common manifestation of atmospheric corrosion. 60 | agairupdate.com
Stress corrosion cracking is a factor that results from the combined action of tensile strength under pressure molecular separation and a corrosive environment.
Preventive Measures Surface Protection To safeguard aircraft from corrosion and separation, technologies like ceramic coating/ sealants/waxes provide a sacrificial layer over the paint layer, providing a more durable, smooth surface that, in some cases, bonds on a molecular level with the paint substrate. These protective coatings can vary in durability and longevity according to the environment, used cleaning products, and care exercised during repair work. Environmental and chemical protection programs should be assessed yearly, and different regions of the United States should have varying programs based on these environmental and chemical needs. Washing can provide significant benefits to longevity against corrosion. Regular Inspections Frequent inspections are crucial to detect early signs of corrosion. Visual inspections, non-destructive
testing, and specialized equipment can help identify corrosion-prone areas, enabling timely intervention and maintenance. Corrosion Inhibitors Corrosion inhibitors like zinc chromate primer have been implemented to provide protection. You will often notice this process by a green color below the paint surface. Factories like Thrush Aircraft have made this standardized process. Air Tractor has chosen electromagnetic protection using the cathode/anode approach. Both systems have advantages and disadvantages. Proper Maintenance Comprehensive inspection maintenance practices, regular cleaning, and sacrificial paint protection are essential to combat corrosion. Proper storage and hangar facilities can also minimize exposure to harsh environmental conditions. ➤ agairupdate.com | 61
Material Selection Choosing corrosion-resistant materials during aircraft design and manufacturing plays a vital role in preventing corrosion. The selection of alloys, coatings, and composite materials can significantly extend the lifespan of an aircraft.
Conclusion Aircraft corrosion is an ongoing battle that requires continuous effort and innovation to ensure aviation systems’ safety, reliability, and longevity. By understanding the causes and types of corrosion, implementing preventive measures, and employing advanced materials and technologies, the 62 | agairupdate.com
aviation industry can minimize the impact of corrosion on aircraft. Through these combined efforts, we can preserve the skies and continue to soar toward a safer and more efficient future in aviation. Byron Yoder owns Frontline Detail, a veteran-owned aviation detailing, ceramic coating and industrial corrosion protection company. Byron’s experience is 15 years of detailing with certifications in aircraft detailing, ceramic coating and corrosion protection. Frontline Detail is based out of North Dakota. Please get in touch with Frontline Detail at 701739-6550 or email frontlinedetailnd@hotmail.com with any questions about your aircraft detailing needs.
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TWENTY YEARS AGO
Tri-Rotor Lights the Arizona Desert by Bill Lavender
What has eyes as bright as the sun, is nocturnal and flies in the desert? There are seven of them and they came from Kansas to prey in Arizona. You give up too easily. The answer is Tri-Rotor Ag Service’s four fixed-wing and three rotarywing ag-aircraft outfitted for night ops! Tri-Rotor Ag Services is the Yuma branch of Larry Smiths’ Ulysses, Kansas-based Tri-Rotor Spray and Chemical, Inc. Forming the parent company in 1980 with a Hughes 269, Larry decided on the name Tri-Rotor simply because the Hughes had three rotor blades. Today, Tri-Rotor is a major ag-operation with a fleet consisting of an Air Tractor AT-602 and three AT-402s, Thrush 660, Cessna Ag Truck, Bell OH58 helicopter (converted military version of a Bell Jet Ranger 206), and one each of a Hiller Soloy turbine and a Hiller piston-powered helicopter; quite a diversified fleet by anybody’s standards. In 2000, Larry was approached by Morris Ag Air to buy their Yuma operation. Larry traveled to Yuma for the first time and fell in love with the desert area. Yuma is uniquely positioned between Mexico on its southern and western borders, California to the north and Arizona to the east. San Luis, Mexico is only 15 miles away, with its city lights easily seen in the distance during night ops. California is a mere 25-30 miles away with its stringent regulations, in some ways more so than Arizona. In the case of this writer’s visit, the mission was to spray organic produce. That’s right, an organic crop. Many people have the misconception organic crops are not sprayed. Not true, as this application contained a dose of copper sulfate for insects and fungi control. 64 | agairupdate.com
One of the first things Larry Smith did when he set up Tri-Rotor Ag Services in Yuma was to rebuild the load ramp and takeoff area, and build a new maintenance hangar. This hangar (in the background) and an open hangar for parking the aircraft are constructed of reclaimed irrigation pipe for its support structure.
In the last three years, Larry has taken a two-plane operation and turned it into one that uses up to seven aircraft. Tri-Rotor is the only ag-operation in Arizona that uses helicopters. From two bases, one a few miles south of Yuma and the other 30 miles east in Wellton, Arizona, during the busy months of October and November all seven aircraft are working with a majority of the work flown at night. Mainly due to urbanization and field workers in the Yuma, Gila and Dome Valleys, Tri-Rotor elects to fly at night. Ag-aircraft are not permitted to come within a 1/4 mile of field workers. Whether it is a crew or one single irrigation inspector crossing the field in the dark, Tri-Rotor must spot and remove anyone from the field before spraying it, or go somewhere else to spray. This is why on-site ground personnel monitor applications. ➤
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(L) Larry Smith and (R) Lou Dinnan troubleshoot a GPS glitch on the OH58 Lou Dinnon lands the OH58 on the nurse rig to pick up another load.
helicopter during a night spraying vegetable operation.
Although Tri-Rotor aircraft are outfitted with Satloc GPS units, a truck meets the aircraft at the field with its flashing roof light and maintains radio contact with the aircraft and the home base.
Sometimes the Soloy Hiller (425 shp Allison turbine engine conversion) is used for herbicide work. It uses CP’s helicopter nozzles, the CP-71s, tilted 45° aft mounted on a round boom system. If a high degree of precision in an application is required, where a single boom (left or right) is needed, Larry will opt for the OH58 because it has the AutoCal controller with the Ag-Air Systems hydraulic system. This is a very smooth variable rate system that will adjust the boom pressure to interface with the Satloc GPS, regardless whether left or right side booms are spraying.
As an added benefit to night flying, typically the air is very stable and cooler than in the daytime. However, summer nights air temperatures can be over 100°F, especially after a 120°F day. These conditions require relatively high application rates, typically from seven to fifteen gallons per acre. Tri-Rotor’s season in Yuma is the busiest in October and November. There is a slow down during December and January, but the work picks back up in February and March. Although, of the seven aircraft, one could keep up with the work in spring and summer, one of the Hillers and two AT-402s, one set up for wet and the other dry applications, remain in Arizona. The other four aircraft fly back to Kansas for its spraying season. The split operations compliment each other for efficiency, even though there is some overlap in the spring months. Larry likes to assign the aircraft best suited for the job. The helicopters work in close, loading from the top of a nurse truck. The Thrush 660 is the designated herbicide plane with its special drop booms, in flight 0° CP nozzle orientation and 55-foot swath. Larry realized during spraying operations that the nozzles weren’t truly straight back. On the ground, he used a protractor to determine that the booms needed a 9° rotation up to get a true 0° angle on the nozzle while in flight. 66 | agairupdate.com
The OH58 (a Garlick Helicopters conversion) is new to the Tri-Rotor fleet. It appears to be a more efficient helicopter for Tri-Rotor’s needs than the Hillers. The aircraft has the same payload as the Soloy Hiller, with basically the same engine, (the OH58’s Allison is the military version). The OH58 has a longer tail and larger tail rotor than the Jet Ranger 206. It costs the same as the turbine-powered Hiller, but has a faster ferry speed, as well as is more comfortable for the pilot. However, the Hiller will turn around quicker at the end of the field. According to Larry, the AT-402s are excellent fixed-wing aircraft for Tri-Rotor’s Arizona operations. Most of the fields are slightly less than 40 acres, including the waterways in the field. The AT-402’s 400-gallon hopper fits most applications perfectly. The aircraft is quick, easy to fly and economical to operate. At Tri-Rotor there are several commonalities. All of the aircraft are similarly outfitted for night work. The fixed-wing aircraft have four 450,000 and two 600,000 candlepower halogen lights, plus two 450,000 candlepower turn lights. ➤
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The helicopter nurse truck is a sophisticated night loading machine with a
Visibility at night is good with high-powered night working lights. However, it is
compartment under the load pad for the ground crew to mix and be able to
in the turns and while judging depth-of-field when the night pilot must be extra
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careful.
Not too long ago, the Yuma, Gila and Dome Valleys supported seven or eight flying services. Today, there are only two, albeit they are two large companies. The three valleys grow a variety of crops, but the Big 3 are lettuce, broccoli, and cauliflower. Other crops grown in the valleys include produce of all sorts, onions, alfalfa, potatoes and cotton, as well as some citrus. Cotton used to be king, but with the introduction of BT cotton, it has become a minor crop for aerial applications.
Tri-Rotor Ag Service’s Thrush 660 is outfitted with dropped stainless steel booms and AeroFlow Systems’ check valves with CP nozzles. Looking close
The three valleys are moving more and more to utilizing the helicopter. Ultimately, the Pest Control Advisor (PCA) determines the parameters of the application, dictating the chemical and application rate, and in many cases the aircraft used. PCAs have requested an increase in the use of the helicopter, even though applications cost considerably more than fix-wing applications.
at the cockpit entrance, this 660 has parking privlidges.
All seven aircraft are outfitted with Satloc GPS units. The OH58 is different in that it has the ACE system and the Auto-Cal unit with Ag-Air Systems hydraulics. Larry has elected to designate the OH58 for special application contracts that may require the variable rate technology of the ACE and Auto-Cal combination.
Matt Fieldgrove is Tri-Rotor’s operations manager and also flies the AT-402 year round in Yuma. When asked how he managed the operation during the busiest of times and still found time to fly, Matt replied, “Flying gives me time to think.” Night operations begin when the chemicals arrive, usually at dusk. Matt begins his scheduling based on data from the Arizona Department of Agriculture’s 1080 forms. A 1080 form is a work order filled out by the PCA giving Tri-Rotor all the information it needs to make an application, including chemical and rate.
The fixed-wing aircraft cockpits have been inlaid with a special soundproofing and have active noise reduction that makes them much quieter for the pilots. All aircraft have CP Products nozzles. Tri-Rotor is in the process of outfitting the fleet with AeroFlow Systems check valves. Of course, all of the aircraft have mobile-to-mobile radios.
When the pilots are handed their 1080 forms and intended schedules for the night, the field spotters are given field locations and they disperse for the first field in the schedule. Helicopter nurse trucks load up their materials and head for the first application job, with the helicopter pilot coordinating his and the nurse truck’s arrival at the field. ➤
The helicopters have two 600,000 candlepower units and one 450,000 candlepower unit.
68 | agairupdate.com
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Lowell Hicks, TX, Passes Lowell Ross Hicks, age 84, of East Bernard, Texas passed away on Wednesday November 22, 2023. He was born in Paris, Tennessee and lived on a farm with his family until age nine when his dad died in a farm tractor accident and his mother moved to town where she was a nurse. He enlisted in the US Army at 16. On a three-year tour of duty in the Far East, he was assigned to the 24th Infantry Division, Company C, 499th Engineer Battalion in Korea as a Combat Construction Specialist located at the Imjin River, overseeing dams, bridges and river crossings in the combat zones. When he returned to the states he was stationed at Fort Benning, Georgia where he met his wife, Hazel Hicks at a square dance and soon after they were married. A few years later, with the encouragement and support of his wife he began to fulfill a childhood dream of flying airplanes. The fulfillment of that dream began in College Park, Georgia where he got his private pilot license and later moved his family to Orlando, Florida where he completed his commercial license and then on to Lubbock, Texas for Ag Training. The work he loved took him and his family to Oklahoma, North Dakota, Louisiana, Georgia, Arizona, Texas, and Nicaragua. He flew Stearmans, Ag Cats and Pawnees. In July 1990 he was severely burned in a refueling accident and at Herman Burn Center in Houston, Texas he developed pneumonia and slipped into a coma until October. He was released in November with a medical assessment that he would never fly again. His can-do determination to continue doing what he loved proved his doctors wrong and he not only returned to flying, he also bought Pawnees and Ag Cats and that was the beginning of his own business, Double L Flying Service which he and his wife operated until 2016. With over forty years in Agricultural Aviation, he has been a licensed pilot, a licensed instructor, and owneroperator. He has shown leadership in the industry by advising and helping develop young pilots, by holding office and receiving leadership awards including 72 | agairupdate.com
President of TAAA – Texas Agricultural Aviation Association, and through attendance at state and national levels and with generous donations. He cherished his family. He loved his friends and always made the effort to keep in touch with everyone no matter the distance. He loved to travel and he and Hazel visited every US state and Canada, often in their RV. He is preceded in death by his father, Harry Bowen Hicks, his mother Edna B (Nash) Hicks and brother, Jesse Lee Hicks. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Hazel (Abner) Hicks, his daughter Wendy Thomson, his son, Jeff Hicks, his granddaughter Heather Thomson Lovallo, and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
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Sharon Watkins, Long-time Mid-Continent Aircraft Representative, Passes Sharon Kay Watkins was born on December 10, 1954 at Pemiscot Memorial Hospital in Hayti, MO to P.A. Watkins, Jr. and Joy Womble Watkins. She passed away from this life peacefully at her home in Hayti on November 20, 2023. Sharon and her two younger brothers, Michael and Roger, grew up in the family’s idyllic farm in a rural area outside of Wardell, MO. After graduating from Caruthersville High School in 1972, Sharon attended Arkansas State University, before transitioning to her career as an insurance broker at Mid-Continent Aircraft Corporation in 1981. She hit the ground running, earning her agent’s license, then broker’s license, all the while representing Mid-Continent at various state and national association conventions, and even abroad in the United Kingdom. Taking the reins of the Insurance Division in 1992 and later becoming a corporate officer, Sharon’s reputation for devotion to her customers and her job remains well-respected throughout the aviation industry to this day. Whether guiding a fledgling operation through its growing pains, delivering welcomed news of a really good quote, or calming an anxious insured with a worrisome claim, it was Sharon’s instinct to go above and beyond; to make extraordinary tasks seem ordinary. For this and more, it is no wonder why she was named one of Pemiscot County’s Outstanding Women in Business.
Sharon embraced her faith as a member of the Temple Baptist Church in Caruthersville beginning in the late 1960s and then more recently as a member of the Hayti First Baptist Church.
As a reliable colleague, mentor, and friend to those who worked with her, Sharon was a chief encourager who nurtured ambitions and championed accomplishments of others. It is that legacy of selflessness that continues to inspire her former co-workers.
Sharon was preceded in death by her parents and brother Michael. Those left to celebrate her memory include brother and sister-in-law Roger and Donna Watkins, aunt and uncle Lee and Geraldine Watkins, aunt and uncle Dan and Brenda Westbrook, aunt and uncle Norris and Delores Watkins, aunt Patsy Sadler, a host of cousins and nieces and nephews, including Sarah Watkins, best friend Genia Taylor, The Turnage Family, and the entire Mid-Continent family.
Finally enjoying the fruits of her labors, Sharon entered into retirement in 2022. She spent time decorating and refinishing her home, collecting antiques, and spending time with friends.
Funeral services were held November 22, 2023 at the Hayti First Baptist Church with Brother Mark Hoover officiating. Pallbearers include Chris Cobb, Kevin Curtis, James Forbus, Stan Hunter, Josh Rittenberry, and Tyler Watkins.
74 | agairupdate.com
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A WING AND A PRAYER
Carlin Lawrence carlin@agairupdate.com
God Can Use Sinful Humans Any Way He Chooses God said to Moses, “I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion” (Romans 9:15). There are many people who struggle with the fact that God is absolutely sovereign, can do whatever He wants, whenever He wants, and He doesn’t have to answer to anyone for His actions. “The Most High rules in the kingdom of men, gives it to whomever He will, and sets over it the lowest of men…He does as He pleases with the powers of heaven and the peoples of the earth. No one can hold back His hand or say to Him: ‘What have You done?’” (Daniel 4:17, 35). Everything God does is absolutely holy and righteous, and humans cannot do anything that is righteous unless God’s Spirit is working through us. Jesus said, “Without Me you can do nothing!” (John 15:5). “It does not, therefore, depend on human desire or effort, but on God’s mercy” (Romans 9:16). If God’s Holy Spirit didn’t open our mind to God we would never become a believer in Jesus Christ. “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus” (Romans 3:23-24). “When the kindness and the love of God our Savior toward man appeared, not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior, that having been justified by His grace we should become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.” (Titus 3:4-7). “For Scripture says to Pharaoh: ‘I raised you up for this very purpose, that I might display My power in you and that My name might be proclaimed in all the earth.’ Therefore God has mercy on whom He wants to have mercy, and He hardens whom He wants to harden” (Romans 9:1776 | agairupdate.com
18). When God sent Moses to lead the Hebrew people out of Egyptian bondage Pharaoh refused to listen to Moses and constantly hardened his heart against God. Pharaoh hardened his heart against God and God made firm Pharaoh’s heart. God allowed Pharaoh to have his own way, and Pharaoh suffered the consequences of his choices. “Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap” (Galatians 6:7). “Therefore He has mercy on whom He wills, and whom He wills He hardens” (Romans 9:18). God is patient, loving, merciful and forgiving, but if a person rejects God’s grace and mercy God will not overrule their choices, and there will come a time when the Spirit of God will no longer strive to bring that person into God’s kingdom. God’s Grace and mercy is over and Judgment has come. “Anyone who rejected Moses’ law died without mercy on the testimony of two or three witnesses. Of how much worse punishment, do you suppose, will he be thought worthy who has trampled the Son of God underfoot, counted the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified a common thing, and insulted the Spirit of grace?” (Hebrews 10:28-29). You will say to me then, “Why does He still find fault? For who has resisted His will?” But indeed, O man, who are you to reply against God? Will the thing formed say to him who formed it, “Why have you made me like this?” Does not the potter have power over the clay, from the same lump to make one vessel for honor and another for dishonor?” (Romans 9:19-21). When we reject God’s calling on our life, and live to please our self, we become vessels of dishonor that are not useful for God’s purposes. But when we yield to God’s calling on our life He will form us into vessels of honor for His purposes. The primary purpose of our life is to bring glory to God; everything else is secondary!
Thank you for stopping by our booth! We enjoyed seeing everyone at the 2023 NAAA Expo in Palm Springs.
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“What if God, wanting to show His wrath and to make His power known, endured with much longsuffering the vessels of wrath prepared for destruction, and that He might make known the riches of His glory on the vessels of mercy, which He had prepared beforehand for glory, even us whom He called, not of the Jews only, but also of the Gentiles?” (Romans 9:22-24). God is glorified in His anger and wrath just as much as He is glorified by His love, mercy and grace. God must demonstrate His wrath against sinful humanity or He will be showing that He tolerates and agrees with evil. God has allowed sinful humanity to exist so He can show His love, mercy and grace to those who have trusted in Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior (Galatians 3:26-29). Christians understand God’s attributes of righteousness, love, mercy and grace; but we also need to understand God’s attribute of wrath toward all ungodliness. If God allowed ungodliness to go unpunished He wouldn’t be a righteous God. If we question God’s actions we are showing our selfrighteousness, humanistic pride and our ignorance of God’s holiness. God calls all people to be in His heaven (Romans 10:9-13). God also allows humans to make our own choice to accept or reject God’s calling on our life. God is patient with us, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9). Someday God’s wrath will be revealed from heaven against all the evil of humanity (Revelation 16). Anyone can escape God’s wrath by trusting in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. Don’t wait until it’s too late. agairupdate.com | 77
DRAKE’S PERSPECTIVE Drake Martin
The Drone Elephant
As I mentioned in my last article, convention season is well underway. This year is my first national convention I have attended. Foot traffic was much heavier than state conventions and it was interesting to see pilots and operators from around the world. While visiting with a vast array of current Chem-Man users and prospective users alike, one subject seemed to resonate with each 78 | agairupdate.com
topic of conversation. What was once the elephant in the room is now becoming more accepted in the industry. The topic is, of course, you may have guessed it, drones… While Chem-Man was initially designed and utilized by aerial and ground applicators, our program has become
popular in the drone community. While several standalone drone application companies utilize Chem-Man for its various features, we have seen an uptick in fixed wing, rotorcraft, and ground operations implementing drones into their own spray program. When drones first emerged, they were revered as a threat to most aerial operations. As the technology has advanced and entry costs have become less expensive, the sightings of drones making applications have become even more noticeable. We have learned that no matter our individual opinions or concerns, it doesn’t appear that drones are going anywhere anytime soon. We have seen that a drone can never replace the need for airplanes, helicopters, or ground rigs; even more so, we can begin to develop the mindset that there may be a need for drones in our industry. A drone could also serve as another service an operation can offer to accommodate its customer base better. An operator told me last spray season that instead of having the fear of an outside organization targeting his customer base, he felt it best to offer the service himself so that his operation could be the one-stop shop for all his customer’s application needs. Each aerial or ground operation can think of more than one instance where a job may have been more
suitable for a drone than risking the life of a pilot or sacrificing the quality of work with an application in an unfavorable location. As I am sure many people have seen, unfortunately, people are entering the drone business with little to no experience in the application or pesticide industry. If drones are to be utilized for application purposes, they must be conducted professionally and in compliance with all state and federal regulations. I believe that there isn’t a more capable group of individuals to pave the way for drone use than the ag pilots who have already blazed the trails in the aerial application industry. While the quality of work and the legality of applications are important, I believe that safety should be the highest priority for everyone involved, whether a drone-only operation or an operation with a combination of drones, airplanes, and helicopters. Aerial operators have their fair share of obstacles to contend with, so it is essential to mitigate the risk of a collision by communicating with everyone involved. The subject of drones may not be agreeable to everyone. Still, everyone can agree that pilot safety should be the highest priority as time unveils just how significant of a role drones will play in our industry.
agairupdate.com | 79
NTSB REPORTS Accident Synopses
Accident Number: CEN23LA197
pilots reported that neither made a radio
knowledge and skill test for the pilot as
call announcing their intentions.
required by 14CFR 137.19.
Location: Gueydan, Louisiana Date: May 22, 2023 Aircraft: GULFSTREAM-SCHWEIZER A/C CORP GULFSTREAM AM G-164B (A1); GULFSTREAM-SCHWEIZER A/C CORP GULFSTREAM AM G- 164D (A2) Injuries: None (A1); None (A2)
Probable Cause and Findings — The
Probable Cause and Findings — The
National Transportation Safety Board
National Transportation Safety Board
determines the probable cause(s) of this
determines the probable cause(s) of
accident to be: The failure of both pilots
this accident to be: The pilot’s decision
to see and avoid each other resulting in
to takeoff with the airplane overloaded
a collision on the airstrip. Contributing
which resulted in the airplane settling and
was the pilots’ failure to announce their
subsequently impacting terrain.
The two airplanes were conducting
intentions over their radios as they were
agricultural operations at a private airstrip.
taking off and landing.
The pilot of the landing airplane reported that, while airborne, he noticed the departing airplane was being loaded at the tender
Accident Number: CEN23LA202
Accident Number: CEN23LA212 Location: Light, Arkansas Date: May 29, 2023 Aircraft: GRUMMAN ACFT ENG CORSCHWEIZER G-164B Injuries: Minor
The pilot of the departing airplane
Location: Wright, Louisiana Date: May 25, 2023 Aircraft: GRUMMAN ACFT ENG CORSCHWEIZER G-164B Injuries: None
reported that after loading, he positioned
The pilot reported that before his 12th
a levee. The airplane came to rest upside
his airplane on the runway and began
aerial application flight of the day, the
down in a field about 100 feet from the
his takeoff roll. Meanwhile, the pilot of
airplane was overloaded with fertilizer
point of impact. The airplane sustained
the landing airplane touched down in
due to faulty ground loading equipment.
substantial damage to the wings, fuselage,
the opposite direction of the departing
Knowing the airplane was overloaded the
horizontal stabilizer, and vertical stabilizer.
airplane. The pilot of the landing airplane
pilot decided to dump some of the fertilizer
The pilot reported that there were no
reported that while he was slowing down
over the grass strip during takeoff.
preaccident mechanical malfunctions or
on the landing roll, he looked over his
As the airplane reached the point on the
failures with the airplane that would have
airplane’s hopper and noticed the departing
grass strip that he felt he could safely stop,
precluded normal operation.
airplane rolling toward him. The pilot of
the “airplane felt like it was wanting to fly”
The accident occurred shortly after takeoff
the landing airplane attempted to veer out
so he continued the takeoff. As the pilot
from a private turf/dirt strip used only for
of the way of the departing airplane but
turned toward the field that he intended to
agricultural operations. The pilot reported
was unsuccessful. The left wing of the
apply the fertilizer to, the airplane settled
that the airplane was about 320 pounds
landing airplane struck the left wing of the
and impacted in a field.
below its maximum gross weight of 6,070
departing airplane. The landing airplane
The airplane sustained substantial damage
lbs., that the density altitude at the time
sustained substantial damage to both
to both wings, empennage, and fuselage,
of the accident was about 2,000 feet msl,
left wings, the fuselage, the horizontal
and the engine separated from the
and that he turned “a little premature” after
stabilizer, and the elevator.
airframe. The pilot reported that there were
taking off with a full load of fertilizer.
The departing airplane sustained
no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or
Probable Cause and Findings — The
substantial damage to all four wings and
failures with the airplane that would have
National Transportation Safety Board
the fuselage. Both pilots reported that there
precluded normal operation.
determines the probable cause(s) of this
were no preimpact mechanical failures or
No Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations
accident to be: The pilot exceeding the climb
malfunctions with the airplanes that would
Part 137 certificate was found for the
capability of the airplane during takeoff
have precluded normal operation. Both
operator and there was no record of a
which led to it settling into the ground.
truck. The pilot of the landing airplane estimated that he would have enough time to land and clear the runway before the departing airplane was finished loading.
80 | agairupdate.com
The pilot reported that on departure, the airplane settled to the ground and struck
Accident Number: CEN23LA244 Location: Sturgis, South Dakota Date: June 18, 2023 Aircraft: AIR TRACTOR INC AT-502 Injuries: None The pilot reported he departed in the airplane with about 660 lbs of fuel and about 3,500 lbs of liquid chemical for application to a pasture. After arriving at the pasture, the chemical dispersal system was malfunctioning, and the pilot decided to return to the airport. During the landing to the first quarter of the runway, the airplane was about 125 mph, with “half flap” applied, and the tailwheel was locked. As the tailwheel touched down on the dry concrete runway, the pilot initiated beta mode with the propeller, and the airplane “started veering to the right.” The pilot assessed that he “reversed the propeller too aggressively and too soon.” The airplane departed the runway to the right, the left main landing gear separated after impacting a ditch, and the airplane came to rest upright on a grass field. The pilot was able to egress from the airplane without further incident. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and the left wing. The operator reported there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airframe or the engine that would have precluded normal operation. A postaccident examination of the chemical dispersal system found foreign object debris that was likely blocking the flow of the chemical. Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 137 Agricultural Aircraft Operations does not contain full load landing training and recurrency requirements. The pilot reported the last time he performed a full load landing was about 2 years prior. The estimated density altitude for the airport was 6,101 ft. Probable Cause and Findings — The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be: The pilot’s improper timing to initiate beta mode with the propeller and his failure to maintain directional during the full load landing that resulted in a runway excursion. Contributing to the accident was the pilot’s lack of recent experience with performing a full load landing and the high-density altitude that likely affected aircraft performance during the landing. agairupdate.com | 81
LOW & SLOW
Mabry I. Anderson An Insider’s History of Agricultural Aviation
The Early Days Down South — Chapter One continued…
Rare photo of dignitaries in front of Huff-Daland duster in Chile in 1926. Huff-Daland Dusters, the first commercial firm, took aircraft to Chile in 1926 and worked them in fertile valleys. Delta Air Lines photo.
Vegetable Work Dockery also helped move the business into the Midwest, particularly the vegetable-growing regions of Wisconsin, Illinois, and Minnesota. In the late 1930s, the growing and canning of English peas became big business, especially in Wisconsin and, as acreage increased, so did common aphid infestations. Wisconsin farmers fought these pests with ground equipment, but with little success.
Air Service was also contacted, but in the beginning did not respond. Dockery, however, with nothing to lose, took several planes to Wisconsin after receiving a call from Bill Schorer, president of Reedsburg Foods Corporation at Reedsburg, Wisconsin. Schorer guaranteed expenses for the trip, but Dockery states that he never did ask for this money because business was so good that he didn't think he needed it.
In desperation, farmers and concerned officials contacted the USDA. A leading USDA entomologist, Archie Geiser, who had long appreciated aircraft work, suggested that they contact Dockery and others, and try airplanes. Delta
Fanners descended upon the airplanes and they went to work, applying rotenone on peas at 40 to 50 pounds per acre, at five cents a pound for application. This was a fortune in those days. ➤
82 | agairupdate.com
Dockery remains uncertain whether the rotenone poisoned any aphids, but he is sure it ran them off or smothered them to death! This work was well received by growers and this midwestem migration became a regular source of income for Dockery. He soon contracted with Green Giant Foods at Beaver Dam, Wisconsin for all of its work. Green Giant had lands in Illinois, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. Aircraft work became popular in all of these fanning communities.
Rare photo of Lt. John Patrick and another Army pilot in front of one of the first dusters at Tallulah, La., Circa 1923.
E.O. "Champ" Champion was another important figure in the era of the late 1930s. Champion began flying in the 1920s and set up his own operation in the late 1930s, agairupdate.com | 83
KQ-XRN
establishing a permanent base at Oxford, Mississippi. The location was somewhat outside the heavily fanned Delta cotton region, but he commuted to the Delta for most of his work.
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Again a large Delta plantation was more or less responsible for a firm's organization. Self and Company, a fanning giant in Quitman County, Mississippi, contracted with Champion to take care of its work. Champion Air Service was organized and operated out of Marks, Mississippi, where it is still in operation. An interesting sidelight is that E.O.'s son Dean still does all of the flying for Self and Company, a relationship that has existed for more than 40 years. Another of Champ's sons, Elvis, Jr., also operates a flying service near Charleston, Mississippi. The senior Champion, in his day, had a distinct leaning for Waco airplanes, but was one of the very first operators in the Delta to begin switching over to modem aircraft when they became available. Champion's memory is honored by the "E.O. Champion Operator Award," presented each year by the Mississippi Agricultural Aviation Association. Joe "Eaglerock" Ours, another colorful pilot of the Finklea era, set up his own operation, Dixie Dusting Operation, at Leland, Mississippi and did much to promote and improve agricultural flying during his lifetime. Joe Ours was a real "pilot's pilot," very skillful, highly knowledgeable, and with a real flair. Although his nickname was "Eaglerock," he actually preferred the straightwinged Wacos and flew them until his death in 1978.
CLASSIFIEDS Export Special: G164A+, Fresh AmAg repair w/factory-jigged frameworks, New 335-Hopper, Ext’d/Metal Wings, 80-fuel, 24V w/Strobes, E-Servo, TWL, Hybrid Combo. Ready for 1000 hr. service-run. Your certified R985/R1340 E&P installed. $85K includes CofAW4 Export flyaway, $90K in your container. Call 870-886-2418.
Aircraft - Ag Cat
1983 Grumman G164B AgCat, N3626G, 9335TT, M601E, Avia Prop. Long range fuel, dual bottom load fuel, right boom shutoff, custom recessed dash, MVP50 instrument panel, Hershey wing tips, rudder servo, Frakes aileron servos, elevator servo, heavy gear, stainless tw, COM radio, CPnozzle/ck valve/swivel, 38” gatebox, air condition w/sealed cockpit,29x1100 tires, smoker. Jan 2023 annual. You won’t find another like this one. CLEAN northern aircraft, always hangared, no MDH. Call Peg Klemetson at Sky Tractor 701-636-5880.
Relisting! The sale fell through. 1989 Super B Fat Cat, super 6 engine, 500 gallon, 11,166 TT, 1189 since hot, 188 IRAN, hydraulic spray system, air conditioning and heat, wing extensions, servos, night lights, E/I digital gauges. $220K. Call 509-520-8267.
1972 Ag-Cat G-164A, S/N 926, TT Airframe 7,686, P&W R-1340-AN-1 (600 HP), TT SMOH 289, Blower Ratio 10-1, Overhaul by Tulsa Aircraft Engines, Excellent Compressions on all 9 Cylinders, 80 Gallon fuel bottom load, 300-gallon hopper bottom load, Satloc SLXG3 GPS with Light bar, Crophawk 7 flow control, Hershey Wing Extensions and Mods, most Inspections always done by Hershey Flying Service & Wallace Air Repair. Clean Northern Airplane, no Corrosion! Almost $9,000 spent on Fresh Annual Inspection done 09/18/23. Airplane is located in Bassett, Nebraska. It’s Ready to Work! $90,000. For questions and more pictures contact Tim: 432-788-7309.
1980 D Cat, N8317K. Factory -34 500 Gallon D model Cat, Exceptionally nice, total ground-up restoration a few years back. Including frame. Perfect logs and records. 1 owner since new. TT 23,623. PT6A -34 750HP 3221 SMOH, 0 SPOH, complete logs, no damage history, Bantom GPS, Heater and AC, fabric on wings and tail is like NEW! Getting Annual right now. Located: Sacramento, CA. $395,000. Logs and pictures ready to send. Jared Segebartt. 208-301-0683.
DOORS HYDRAULIC
QueenCat In Progress - S/N 566B Super B+ Mods, ready for Garrett or P&W Turbine, 400-gal, 120-fuel, hi wings, heavy struts & wires, T.S. Tail, Heavy Gear, TL DAF Combo. $290K (YOUR FWF). Call 870-886-2418. Get Serious About Selling Phone / Fax: 478-987-2250.
1978 G-164B, N6793K. Very nice clean, Low time 400 Gallon Super B TTAF 7812.8, TPE 331-1, HOT 1108.5, Prop 1108.5 M3 Satlock, Single point fuel, 115 Gallon fuel, Raised wing, Metalized wings, Hopper is like new. Tail fabric is in excellent shape. pictures and logs ready to send. $235,000. Sacramento CA. Jared Segebartt 208-301-0683.
1975 Grumman G164A Ag Cat, N7496K, 6102.7 TT, Pratt & Whitney R-985-AN14B 451.7 SMOH by Leach. 451.7 hours since wings recovered and painted, prop governor, starter, and 22D30 prop OH. New alternator. 130 hours since cockpit aft was disassembled, repainted, and reassembled. Chip detector, SATLOC Bantam, stainless steel booms & CP nozzles, electric fan brake, Transland gate & Swathmaster spreader, Smoker, spare wheels/tires/brake calipers, and other assorted parts. $95K. Call or text 337-319-3013.
Best Classified Buy In The Industry. Read By More Ag Pilots Than Any Other Publication. Phone / Fax: 478-987-2250.
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A FEW SECONDS | MYTHBUSTIGINGNE: S FO UR EN TOP | WASH YOOD LABELS, DEBUNKFIVE | FROM SOYA R SE ED TO TO ECUADO POTATO SP EDING 502XP GOES RAYING
4.25" X 2. 75"
JETSET
Ag Air Update AIRMOTIVE 002a Our PT6A Services: AOG 24 hr Field Service: ➤ PT6A Engine Sales and Service ➤ PT6A Parts Sales ➤ PT6A Engine MRO Services
1978 G-164C 500 Gallon, N6681K. Frakes conversion PT6A-34 750 HP. 17,433 TT, PT6A-34 2100SMOH, 260 SPOH. Metalized wings, AC & Bleed Heat. SATLOC Bantom X3 screen. Single point fuel, windshield wash, LEMO power plug. Spare fuslage and Hopper. Spreader full spray gear. Sacramento, CA. $350K. Pictures and logs are ready to send. Jared Segebartt 208-301-0683
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Engine Removal and Installation Troubleshooting Hot Section Maintenance Borescope Inspection ITT, Torque Calibration
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preeves@jsamiami.com www.JSAMiami.com • 305-825-2001 agairupdate.com | 85
CLASSIFIEDS
Aircraft - Air Tractor AT-301 1986 AT-301 Airframe Only - Parting Out, Approximately 5700 TTSN. NO ENGINE. AT-301: Wings, Tail Feathers, Airframe, Firewall Foreword Less Engine/Prop, Gauges, Gear leg, Hopper, STD Gate Box, Booms, Boom Hangars, Pump, Valve & Plumbing, etc., Flaps, and Ailerons. Call 877-715-8476. 1981 AT-301, N2367C, S/N: 3010412, TTAF: 15734.8, Tach: 1220.5, Wings: New spars installed by Air Tractor Certified Repair Station (Zero time), Paint: 8 yrs. P&W R-1340-S3H1-G, S/N: ZP104037, TTE: 10353.8, SMOH: 128.8, Propeller: 3 Bladed, Hydromatic Propeller, Manufacturer: Hamilton Standard, Model: 23D40-311, TT: 1220.5, TSOH: 128.8, Miscellaneous, SATLOC M3, Smoker, Night Work Lights. Call 806-828-5892.
AT-401
1996 AT-401W, TTAF 4200, TTSEOH 624, TTSPOH 590, Cascade conversion. All AD’s abd SB’s completed on airframe and engine. Eddy Current inspection completed on airframe. Replaced both main gear legs. Replaced both main wheels, tire and tubes. Replaced main bearing brakes and brake lines. Replaced flap torque tube and bearings. Replaced rudder cables, pulleys and interconnects. Overhauled tailwheel, mostly all new parts. Replaced seat belts. Replaced wing spar blocks. Overhauled wing spar center section and certified to 8000hrs. Many more parts have been replaced to comply with ad’s / sb’s and inspections. New booms. New CP 11 flat fan with swivels, SATLOC Bantam with Intelliflow, Bottom load fuel, 2” bottom load, Vortex generators, Walter M601-E11 624 hrs ( 4000 hr TBO). Freshly overhauled FCU. AD compliant. $425,000 USD OBO. Call Ryan at 403-901-8979. rseeley170@gmail.com.
Allied N-TBA N-TBA
1991 AT-401, TTAF 3162.5, P&W R1340, TTE 934.5, Hamilton Standard 3 Blade - 23D40-51, TTProp 507. Very low hours, well maintained, G4 Satloc Bantam, CP11 nozzles, Reabe Hopper Gauge, Vortex Generators, Garmen Comm, Smoker. $225,000 Call Reed at 403-793-0949.
AT-402
1994 AT-401, Cascade Turbine Conversion M601E-11 AFTT: 4,690.6 hrs Engine TT: 193.6 hrs Overhauled by GE May 2023. Propeller: 193.6 hrs Wing Spar Modification completed March 2019 at 4,201.3 hrs AFTT 170 US Gallon fuel with Turbine Conversion Single Point Fuel System AgNav Platinum Guidance and Flow Control ReaBee Hopper Qty System 2 sets of booms ASC-A10 Atomizers and CP09-3P. Call for Price 306-786-3345.
1989 AT-401, Cascade Turbine Conversion M601E-11 AFTT: 8,662.0 hrs Engine TT: 1,910.4 hrs shop revision completed by GE May 2023 all ADs and SBs complied with. Propeller: 1,881.5 hrs. Wing Spar Replaced December 2017 at 7,642.9 hrs AFTT. Gear Legs replaced in 2014 at 7,025.7 hrs IAW Air Tractor SL. 170 US Gallon fuel with Turbine Conversion Single Point Fuel System AgNav Platinum Guidance and Flow Control ReaBee Hopper Qty System 2 sets of booms ASC-A10 and CP09-3P. Call for Price 306-786-3345.
Productions
Fully Warranted 2020 Q u e e n C a t s
500 gal “SC-Plus” TPE 331* ........................... $479,000 400 gal “SB-Plus” TPE 331* ........................... $369,000 * New Prop - your engine
N936QC 350 gal “A+R1340” Complete/Deluxe** ......... $199,000 N141QC 350 gal “A+R1340” Complete/Deluxe** ................. $199,000 **OHC Top Shop Engine/Fresh Prop
Jigged Frames — “ground-up” — restorations 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 • frank.kelley@ag-cat.com • Fax: 870-886-2489
86 | agairupdate.com
1998 AT-402B -34AG, 7618hrs TT airframe; 484hrs since hot section, willing to do pending sale. Hartzell 3-bladed prop 784hrs since OH. Brand new spars and fresh annual. SATLOC M3 with booms, pump, and electric brake.Call 979-543-5272.
1990 AT-402 AFTT- 10993, Hobbs 6363.8, (Wings due in 9800 Hours) Engine TT 20859 hours. TSO- 6230.5 hours PT6A-34. Zero time since hot section inspection. Prop TSO 1286 hours. 1 season on new SATLOC G4 GPS with L7 lightbar. AFS check valves, CP11 nozzles. Smoker, single-point fuel, hopper rinse. Current annual. Clean airplane. Call 419- 235-4182.
2009 AT-402B, N422RD, PT6A-34AG, Cascade Inlet, Smoker, Right-hand boom shutoff, Night work lights, Stainless spray system, AFTT and ETT is 30hrs. Call for Price. 806-828-5892.
1989 AT-502 - 502-050 - 34AG Hobbs 8766, TT 16,395, HSI@8536, overhauled FCU @8427, prop overhauled @6922. Wings due @17,821. Annual due 1-31-24. G4 with flow control, Air Repair Hydraulic Gate. Hydraulic spray valve, flaps, and wingman. New batteries 8-18-23. Kawak throttle quadrant, VG’s, A/C, pulsating wing lights, new T Boom 8-1-23. Comm radio, ADSB. $275,000 OBO Text or call Brandon at 662-9024688 Brandon or TJ at 662-836-7347.
1996 AT-502B, TTAF 6632, PT6-34AG TTE 7425, New CT Blades at Engine TT 5351, New PT Blades at Engine TT 5941, EI MVP50, Large Oil Cooler, Clean Airplane, No Damage History, Ag PilotX, Reabe Hopper Guage, Rt Boom Shutoff, Super Booms With CP Flat Fan, Lane Brake and Fan, uAvionix AV30C, Tail Beacon X, King Com Radio, No Fertilizer, Currently in Annual Inspection, Always Been a Northern Airplane. $545,000 Call 701-265-4466.
AT-502
1995 AT-502B with PT6-15AG Engine. We have a meticulously maintained 1995 AT-502B with a PT6-15AG engine, ready for its next home. Total Aircraft and Engine Hours: 6749.2 hours, Total Time Since Hot Inspection (TSHI): 1147.0 hours, very clean, northern aircraft. All Airworthiness Directives (AD’s), Service Letters (SL’s), and Service Bulletins (SB’s) are up to date. Annual inspection in process, Equipped with Storm Cutters for superior safety, Reabe Air Hopper Gauge for precise operations, Vortex Generators for improved control, PS Engineering PAR200A COMM Radio for clear communication, Ag-Pilot X for expert precision in agricultural applications. This Air Tractor 502B is the perfect choice for your agricultural needs. Don’t miss out on this opportunity! Contact us now to learn more and schedule a viewing. $499K OBO Call Joe LaRue at 218-685-6594.
1989 AT-502, TTAF 14,000 PT6A-34AG TTE 17,000, Hartzell HC-B3 Prop TT 1600, Compressor I.R.A.N 2014. Changed exhaust duct, Gas Gen Case, New CT Blades in 2017. Installed O/H FCU in August 2023. Fresh annual inspection. Radio Box Garmin 345 audio panel, ADS-B. Intellistar. $330,000 Contact 520-254-1007 or 520-384-3077.
2023 AT-502XP - This is the closest to new you will find! This aircraft has been spec for forestry and is equipped with $151,000 worth of additional options! If you are looking for a new XP, this one could save you some money, and already have all the toys! AFTT 241. Call Reg at 204-326-0759.
CLASSIFIEDS
AT-602
Stop overpaying for your helmet!
GOVERNMENT SALES, INC. 54 years in business!
New and used 502XP’s available for Spring 2024. Call Dave at Portage Aircraft Specialties 1-204-870-2828 sales@portageaircraft.ca. 2024 Air Tractor AT-502XP. Available spring of 2024 - AT-502XP. Call for details 772-461-89024.
2015 AT-502B, TTAE 3,940 hrs, P&W-34AG - Includes Reabe hopper gauge, smoker, factory air-conditioning, and ram air induction. OPTIONS: Lane electric pump brake & fan, Satloc G4 w/ Intelliflow, Shadin fuel flow monitor, Vortex Generators, cockpit Heater, LED nose mounted pulse/taxi lights, Storm Cutters. AVIONICS - Garmin GMA 345 audio panel (Bluetooth), Garmin GTR 225 comm radio, Garmin GTX 335 transponder (ADS-B out), ANR helmet/ headset power port. ENGINE: 363 hrs SHSI, 363 hrs SMOH FCU, 363 hrs SMOH prop governor. Aircraft current total time, 3940 hours both airframe and engine since new. Aircraft is in excellent condition throughout, with all maintenance records up to date and AD’s complied with. See spec sheet for details. $755,000. Call 956-202-2094.
2015 AT-502B, N3081V, TT 2,800, Hobbs 2,725, Optional Equipment: Stainless Steel Cam Locks, Wingman, Bantam w/Flowcontrol, Smoker, Electric Brake Gr. Adj., & Hatfield Single Point Fuel, Fresh HSI & Annual. Call for Price 870-295-6213. Almost new 502XP, 437 hrs total time. Garmin comm and transponder with ADSB out. Turbine Conversions center point fuel. AgPilotX with flow control. Wingman, Storm cutters. Owner-flown and dealer-maintained. Call 979-541-7864. 1988 AT-502, N1006Y, Hobbs: 2550.6 Air Frame TT: 10,516 (Wings Due In 6862.6 Hours) Engine TT: 17,378.6 hours PT6A-27 (Fresh HOT Section Inspection) Engine Time Since Major Overhaul: 5346.9 Extras: Turn Windows, Split Panel, 3-piece windshield, SATLOC M3. The airplane is spray-ready and will come with fresh annual. Located in Lubbock, TX EASY TO FLY! $350,000 Call Dain Guetersloh at 806-535-8560.
2014 AT 602, 3536 TTAE, 401 hrs since IRAN on prop by Stallings, 405 hrs since O/H on FCU, Fuel pump and flow divider, KAWAK throttle quadrant, Wingman, Swathmaster spreader, CP-11’s, Storm cutters and shield, 401 Hrs on new gear per Air Tractor, Hatfield Fuel System. It comes with fresh annual and HOT. Available in January 2024. $875,000 Call 870-659-2153.
Operator owned & flown- 1997 AT-602 PT6-60, Completely redone! New style cockpit, new style GPS Dash, new fuselage added 3960 hrs. ago, new belly skins, 1322.6 hours on new landing gear, an extensive hot section in 2022 - 550 hours ago, TTAE and Prop 11,656.9, 10” Vondran Hydraulic Gate, SATLOC Bantam w/G4 screen & L7 Light Bar, Flow Control, AFS Booms, Check Valves, Spreader & Pump. Ready to work. Currently working - hours will change. Wings and annual are being done now. Comes with fresh annual. It will be ready to work! $650K OBO Call Brandt Bottoms at 870-329-3388.
2016 AT-602, 3400 TTAE, Wingman and spreader, Storm cutters, and Reabe glass top. In annual and Hot now. Email Aaron at aaron@advantageagair.us. 1999 AT-602, TTAF 11K, PT6A-65AG, 8886 TTSN, Covington upgrades, FCU 0-since overhaul, new PT blades, new engine mount, fresh spars, 216 fuel, S.P. fuel, Falcon GPS/IF3 flow, wingman, 7 ½” gate, com radio, AM Safe harness, new gear legs, more. Call 877-715-8476. Late model, low time, 2018 AT-602. 3600hrs Total Time. G4, center point fuel, AFS check valves, CP flat fans. Call 979-541-7864. Call 979-541-7864.
Get Serious About Selling Phone/ Fax 478-987-2250.
USFS & DOI Approved ANVIS6 Helmets, staring at $1,055.00.
Anvis6 with “Rotate for perfect fit” retention.
Anvis6 with Dual visors, $1350.00 complete.
Used Parts Buy or Sale Over 30 years of service
Airplane Services, Inc. 1817 Mineral Springs Road Jay, Florida 32565
Carbon/Kevlar HGU-55/E w/ dual visors(or Single) $1,295.00 Category #2 fixed wing aircraft approved.
Ellis Stuart Chad Stuart
860-247-7787 Tel 860-586-8020 Fax www.AviationHelmets.com
Office: 850-675-1252 Cell: 850-380-6091 ncsflyboy@yahoo.com
S & T Aircraft Accessories Full Engine Accessory Line Large stock of overhauled/certified engine accessories for radial and turbine engines. We can exchange same day, or overhaul your accessory in a short turn-around time. Generators Wobble Pumps Vacuum Pumps Magnetos Hydraulic Pumps Carburetors Motors Reverse Current Relays Starters Fuel Pumps Tach Generators Prop Governors Voltage Regulators Boost Pumps Starter-Generators
CALL US TODAY FOR ALL YOUR ACCESSORY NEEDS OVERHAUL OR EXCHANGE 310 FM 483, New Braunfels, Texas 78130 Email: sales@st.aero Web: www.st.aero Phone: 830-625-7923 Fax: 830-625-4138 FAA Approved Repair Station No. CC2R737K
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CLASSIFIEDS
AT-802
2004 AT-802A, PT-67AG, TTAE 9606, TSHS 700, Great shape, Hatfield fuel system on both sides, load system with Reabe hopper gauge on both sides, Reabe canopy, stainless steel AFS nozzles, G4 with flow control, 7”gate, Amsafe belt, pulsating light, 10,000 hrs left on wings, over $600k into it in last 3 years. $1,100,000 Call 605-9246891.
Aircraft - Cessna
2011 AT-802A, TTAF 7611.4, P6A-65AG, TTE 7314.8, TTSHOT 522.7, CT Blades 2005.6 TTSN, CT Blades 522.7 TTS Stretch Test, Start/ Gen 1406.8 TSOH, Landing Gear 1406.8 TSN, Prop 2005.6 Since IRAN, Flat Fan CPs with AFS Check Valves, 10 in Hydraulic Gate with Spreader, G4 GPS, Wingman, 5-bladed adjustable Lane Fan. Additional pictures available upon request. $915,000 Call 318-552-6533. 2024 Air Tractor AT-802A.Available spring of 2024 - AT-802A -67AG. Call for details 772-461-8924.
2018 AT-802 -65, 3104 TT, 550 SHSI, 550 TSIRAN Prop, SATLOC G4, 7.5” Gate, G4 Controller, Wingman, Flow Control, Hopper Rinse, CP11 Nozzles, Transland 10 Vane Spreader. It will come with fresh annual and new landing gear installed. $1,225,000 Call Jeffrey Price at 870-761-4731 or Bobby Guthrie at 870-370-9877. 2016 AT-802A -65, N8011N, TTAE 4800 hrs. No damage history and no timber. Includes G4 flow control, CP11 Nozzles, Wingman. At 3532 HOBBS, new CT blades, vane, and overhaul ducks & seals, fuel pump and FCU at RT Turbines totaling $232K. Airframe annual at Frost Flying totaling $125K. Asking $900K FIRM. Call Al Patrick at 870-510-6882.
2003 AT-802A, PT6A-65AG, Airframe, and Engine 7500 TTSN, Upgrades by Covington, 640 since FCU overhaul, fresh wing spars, 308 fuel, G-4/ flow, 10” hyd gate, wingman, AM Safe harness, com, trans, ADSB out, KAWAK, new paint 2023. Call 877715-8476.
2020 AT-802A, N8043F, TT 2,000 Optional Equipment: 308 Gallon Fuel, Elec. Brake Gr. Adj, Smoker, G4 w/ Flowcontrol, 5” Air Repair Hydraulic Gate, Stainless Steel Cam Locks, Fast Start, Storm Cutters, Wingman & Single Point Fuel, Fresh HSI and Annual. Call for Price 870-295-6213. 2018 AT-802A, 3214 TT, -65AG, fresh annual, fresh HSI and blade stretch test, Landing Gear replaced at last annual, fresh paint on belly and tail, 308 fuel, Hatfield single point fuel, SATOC G4 with flow control, Wingman. $1,300,000. Call 806-828-5892.
2015 AT-802A, N842KA, PT6A-65AG, 308 fuel capacity, TTAE 4300, Fresh Hot, VG’s, MVP50, PAR 200 and Garmin 345 TRX, Hatfield fuel system, Stainless spray system, Lane fan and brake, Smoker, Kawak throttle quadrant. $1,050,000 Call Neal Aircraft at 806-828-5892.
New 2024 AT-802A’s for Spring/ Summer 2024 Call Dave Portage Aircraft Specialties 1-204-870-2828 sales@portageaircraft.ca.
88 | agairupdate.com
2017 AT-802A, P/W PT6-65AG, Est. 4600 hours (now working / available Oct. 1st) Recent significant engine work (logs on request) Vondran Hydraulic gate, Wingman, Smoker, Factory air and heat, Lane brake, 302 fuel with Hatfield system, CP-11 nozzles. $1,000,000 with no annual or $1,050,000 with annual. Call 870-501-1136. Get Serious About Selling Phone / Fax: 478-987-2250.
1974 Cessna 188B, N888BT, SIN 0001782T, Engine IO-520-D11B SIN 1031405, McCauley Prop #D2A34C98 SIN 961474, TTAF 5194.0, Engine TSMOH 1069.8, Prop TSPOH 1263.5.Engine: Factory overhauled on 10/16/15, Comp last annual 60/69/62/62/64/61 over 80, Mag sent off in 2022 for 500-hour inspection, Has Airwolf remote oil filter, Starter drive OH in 2019, Starter OH in 2020.Airframe: All Leading Edge skins were replaced in 2023 due to dents, along with a couple of top skins, and the top of RT Airlerium wings were repainted to match. Wings reinstalled with all new hardware. Installed all new Mich lunging gear attached bolts and saddles. Has Trig comm radio, Hydraulic spray pump, 8.50 x 10 tires, Satloc 99 GPS, New side windows in 2022, New tailwheel assembly in 2014, Engine mount was removed and refurbished in 2022 due to surface rust, New left bladder in 2014, new right bladder in 2016.Prop: Overhauled in 2014, Flushed in 2016 due to new engine, Govenor OH in 2016. $125,000 Text Aaron Peterson at 870-253-8242 or email aaron@ advantageagair.us.
1975 Cessna A188B Ag Wagon, TTAF 7410, Continental IO520 TTE 1400, Prop TT 650. Well cared for and maintained Midwest aircraft. Robertson STOL, M3 with 2” flow control, super booms, CP 11 nozzles, winglets, 3 position strobes, full and complete logs. $130,000 Call 402-640-9771.
Clean 1974 Cessna 188B with super boom, wind-driven pump, super boom (60ft swath), Leading Edge cuff, and new SATLOC Bantam GPS system. TSMOH 849, Airframe 9681. $106,000. Call 785-614-3548.
Cessna 185, N185HR, Model: A185F, TTAE: 475 original hours. Comes with fresh annual. Make offer. Located in Springfield, Colorado. Make offer! Call 806-828-5892. 1978 Cessna Ag Truck, 5832 TTAF, 625 TTE, 550 TT on prop, 8.50X10 Clevelands, GPS, field ready. Price reduced to $102,000. Call 850-380-6091.
Very clean, well-equipped, and low-time 1980 Cessna T188C Ag Husky. Continental TSIO-520T, TTE 342.2, Turbocharged 300 continuous horses. McCauley Prop TT 342.2, 5-point seat belt, CHT/EGT, Fuel Scan 450, F&M Enterprise Oil Filter Adapter, VG’s, Ag Tip Winglets (not installed), Streamline booms, nozzles, compro smoker, Garmin GTR200B Comm radio, Satloc Bantam GPS/Flow Control, Alaska Bushwheel assembly, will throw in a Transland spreader. Times will vary as A/C is still in use. Great economical use and great trainer. $190,000 Call 308-784-3868.
1975 C-A188B Ag Truck, AFTT 4505.3 IO-550 Engine 120.1 TTSOH, Prop 120.1 TTSOH, AgPilot X GPS, Ag Pilot X Flow Control, Hydraulic Pump, CP11-TT Nozzles, CP Swivels, Cutters, KY 97A TSO VHF, Kenwood FM transceiver, Landing lights, Smoker New 2021, Dry Brake bottom load, Newer streamline booms, Fresh Annual. Asking $190,000. Call 403-223-8245.
The Latest in Global Agricultural Aviation News
CLASSIFIEDS
281-342-5451 888-995-5263 TEL • 281-232-5401 FAX
1968 Cessna 300 HP Ag-Wagon, 7075 TTSN, 1174 SFREMan in 2009, IO 520, 1350 on New PROP, Lite Star GPS, STOL Kit, Airfoil Booms w/CP nozzles, Crop Hawk 4100, Dual bottom loads, Weath Aero Fan, Fresh Annual with purchase. May of 22, $10,000 annual with cables. Awesome flying airplane. $74,900. Call 605-665-7525.
Aircraft - Dromader
1977 Turbine Thrush - Cascade conversion M601E-11 AFTT 6,038 TSMOH 1,400, SB& AD’s completed 08/2023 prop 0 since overhaul 2023, Fuel 192 gal, Hatfield fuel loading system. Air conditioning, GPS Satloc G4 with Intelliflow, Reabe hopper gauge, two sets of booms with atomizers, annual with or without sale. $615,000 Call Roland Jenson at 306-860-8172.
ROTARY ATOMIZERS
Order your Flying Dromader Pen and Ink Drawing from our DeSpain Collection today for only $59.99 plus S&H. Call 478-987-2250 Order your M18 Dromader Pen and Ink Drawing from our DeSpain Collection today for only $59.99. plus S&H. Call 478-987-2250
Aircraft - Piper Brand new 2022 Laviasa PA-25-235 Puelche. Ready to ship or fly. SMOH 0.0 hrs. TT 0.0 hrs. Lycoming O-540-B2C5. 1A200/FA8452 prop. 180 gallons hopper and complete spray system. 53 gallons center fuel tank. Call +54 (362) 463-488. 1982 Piper Super Cub. Lowest time Piper built Cub on the planet, 650 hours TTSN, 0 SMOH, Stits Fabric, beautiful paint, Com Radio, L3 Lynx transponder with ADSB in-out with touchscreen weather, traffic. Call 956-399-5323.
Aircraft - Thrush
1994 S2R-T45 Thrush, SN T45-006 DC, Hobbs 7508, TTAF 10,393, Time remaining on lower spar caps 2249, TTE 14,077.7 Engine TSO 11,098, Engine SIRAN 1,091, Engine SHOT 0, Engine Hot sent to RT Turbine, Prop SPOH 0. $725,000 Call 229-220-6343 or email croomaviation@gmail.com.
Get Serious About Selling Phone/ Fax 478-987-2250.
2022 Thrush 710DC, PT6-65 engine, 838.4 hrs TTSN, dual cockpit, Reabe hopper gauge, Hatfield Center point refueling, Satloc G4 with Intelliflow flow control, Garmin GTR225 VHF Radio, Garmin audio panel GMA350C with intercom and Bluetooth, Garmin G5, ACK E-04 ELT, Landing Light, Price $1,800,000 USD. Call 403-336-1793.
1997 Thrush S2R-G10, 7,138 TTAF, 9737 TTE, CK-41, 931 OH Prop w/ new blades, 1,198 TSGBI, 226 HOT by TAE, wing tips, VG’s, Kawak hydraulic, A/C, pump, spray valve. CP-11’s, com radio, Auto Cal II, Satloc G4, four battery conversion, fast start, hopper gauge, Hatfield single point fuel, new windows. Clean Aircraft. Call 920-849-2199.
Lane Aviation is your North American Micronair dealer, providing proven technology that is used in over a hundred countries across the globe. The Micronair family of products are tailored to meet the varying needs of specific industries which include aerial spraying, horticulture and viticulture, agriculture, animal and public health, forestry and migrant pest control.
1998 Ayres S2R-T34 - Well Maintained Thrush, Heat/AC, Strobes, Fast Start, Load Hawg, LoadMaster Prop, Single Point Fuel, Reabe Gauge, AV-30, ADSB Out, VG’s, Lane Fan, CP11’s Transland Spreader, Shadin Fuel Flow, Serve Aero TW, Satloc Bantam w/ Flow Control. 3-inch Load. Will have fresh Hot Section Inspection $515,000 OBO. Call 815-384-5151. 1978 S2R Thrush, TTAF 12942, GE/ Walter 601E11 TT Since Overhaul 3470, Avia V508E-AG/106/A Prop, TTP 5977, Prop TT since overhaul 3470, SS Booms, New spray pump, Crophawk, A/C. 600 hrs left on wings. Clean northern airplane. NDH Make offer. Call 218-478-2247.
info@laneav.com www.laneav.com
P.O. Box 432 • Rosenberg, Texas 77471 T54 - Lane Airpark | 89 agairupdate.com
CLASSIFIEDS
1979 S2R-T34-015, C-GMQC. Fuselage Configuration Dual Cockpit / 400 Gallon hopper. Airframe Hours 4558. Engine Serial Number PT6-34AG PCE-56690. Engine TTSN 4506 hrs / 6067 cycles. Engine 4000 hr TSO 1736 hoursCovington. Engine Time Since HSI 0 hours. Propeller HCB3TN-3C TSO 0 hours. Max Take-off weight TCCA LSTC - 9120 lbs. Basic Empty Weight 4597 lbs. Comm 1 Garmin SL40. Comm 2 Garmin SL40. Audio Panel Garmin GMA340. Attitude Indicator RCA2600-3Digital. Transponder / ADS-B L3 NGT-9000D SBAS. Navigation GPS Garmin Aera 796. Heading Indicator RCA15EK- Electric. ME406 ELT 453-6603. Engine Instruments Analog UMA Tri Gauge. Cascade Cowls complied with Kawak Engine Controls complied with Serv Aero Tailwheel Assy complied with ATS Vortex Generators complied with Tail Surfaces Fabric. Dual Batteries Gill Complied With Additional Options: Servo Tabs, Cleveland Wheels and Brakes, SB-AG-34 Wing Attach Beef Up, SB-AG-23 Steel Reinforcement Web Doubler Kit SS2R-FF-002, AG-29 Big Butterfly and Lower Splice Plate Kit, Fresh Hot Section Inspection, Freshly Overhauled Propeller. Call Paul at 506-648-3535.
1979 S2R-T34-014, C-GMQB. Fuselage Configuration Dual Cockpit / 400 Gallon hopper. Airframe Hours 4389. Engine Serial Number PT6-34AG PCE-56683. Engine TTSN 4389 hrs / 6047 cycles. Engine 4000 hr TSO 1068 hours-Vector Aerospace. Engine Time Since HSI 643.3 hours. Propeller HCB3TN-3C TSO 532 hours. Max Take-off weight TCCA LSTC - 9120 lbs. Basic Empty Weight 4572 lbs. Comm 1 Garmin SL40. Comm 2 Garmin SL40. Audio Panel Garmin GMA340. Attitude Indicator RCA2600-3-Digital. Transponder / ADS-B L3 NGT-9000D SBAS. Navigation GPS Garmin Aera 796. Heading Indicator RCA15EKElectric. ME406 ELT 453-6603. Engine Instruments Analog - UMA Tri Gauge. Cascade Cowls complied with Kawak Engine Controls complied with Serv Aero Tailwheel Assy complied with ATS Vortex Generators complied with Tail Surfaces Fabric. Dual Batteries Gill Complied With Additional Options: Servo Tabs, Cleveland Wheels and Brakes, SB-AG-34 Wing Attach Beef Up, SB-AG-23 Steel Reinforcement Web Doubler Kit SS2R-FF-002, AG-29, Big Butterfly and Lower Splice Plate Kit. Call Paul at 506-654-6834
1979 S2R-T34-013Thrush, C-GMQA. Fuselage Configuration Dual Control Cockpit / 400 Gallon hopper. Airframe Hours 4765. Engine Serial Number PT6-34AG PCE-56682. Engine TTSN 4765 hrs / 6980 cycles. Engine 4000 hr TSO 1345 hours- Vector Aerospace. Engine Time Since HSI 0 hours. Propeller HCB3TN-3C TSO 1338 hours. Max Take-off weight TCCA LSTC - 9120 lbs. Basic Empty Weight 4632 lbs. Comm 1 Garmin SL40. Comm 2 Garmin SL40. Audio Panel Garmin GMA340. Attitude Indicator RCA2600-3Digital. Transponder / ADS-B L3 NGT-9000D SBAS. Navigation GPS Garmin Aera 796. Heading Indicator RCA1510-3 -Digital. ME406 ELT 453-6603. Engine Instruments Analog UMA Tri Gauge. Cascade Cowls complied with Kawak Engine Controls complied with Serv Aero Tailwheel Assy complied with ATS Vortex Generators complied with Tail Surfaces Fabric. Dual Batteries Concorde Complied With Additional Options: Servo Tabs, Cleveland Wheels and Brakes, SB-AG-34 Wing Attach Beef Up, SB-AG-23 Steel Reinforcement Web Doubler Kit SS2R-FF-002, AG-29. Big Butterfly and Lower Splice Plate Kit, Fresh Hot Section Inspection. Call Paul at 506-654-6834
1978 Ayres S2R 510 Thrush (was delivered from the factory with a turbine) TTAF: 8,868.3, TPE 331-5 Powerplant, TTE: 13,820, TSCAM: 893, TS Last Eddy Current: 302.6, iComm A220 Aviation Radio, AV-30 Glass Instrument w/ ADS-B Out (UAvionix Tailbeacon X), ADS-B in via Stratus, AgPilot X Spray GPS System, DynaNav Digital Boom Pressure Instrument, Agrinautics Pump w/ WeathAero Fan, Transland SS Booms w/ CP-40 Nozzles, 24 Volt Electrical Start System, 4 Blade Hartzell Propeller, Cleveland Wheels and Brakes, Recently Recovered Tail, LED Strobe (Left Wing is timed out, Right Wing has 1,334 Hours Remaining...priced “AS IS”, but Valley Air Service can provide a quote for addressing the Wing Spar AD upon request) $325K Contact Justin Kearns at 208-800-8356 or Graham Kearns at 208-697-2759.
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1996 Super 6 Thrush, 10,177 TTAF, 510 TSHSI & GBI (Ag Air), 0 since re-comp test cell, 510 SPOH, 3728 tt spars, VG’s, cool start, Shadin fuel flow, Hatfield single point fuel, A/C, Bantam (big screen) with flow, radio/ transponder, all stainless Phillips camlocs, AFS check valves, CP-11’s. Nice, clean, ready to work. $450,000 Call 509-336-1007.
1997 510gr -10 thrush, 155 since hot Arkansas Turbine, also Turbo Maxx Cross over duct installed at that time....623 Hours since spar caps replaced... Equipment. Heavy gear, bottom load fuel, Agpilot X GPS, load haug, Kawak throttle quadrant, Kawak 4 battery system, air repair fast start system, Reabe gauge, winglets, Vortex generators, all stainless steel camlocks aircraft ceramic coated 2yrs ago aircraft in very good condition. $599,000 Call 701-360-5966.
1996 Ayres Corporation S2R-G6, S/N G6-144 N2239V, TT: 6314.6, TTE: 11,990, HSI: 2153, Prop TT: 2332, Factory Spars installed at TT: 5,202, Options include: SATLOC G4/IntelliFlow, Smoker, AC and heater, VG.s, Winglets, Right boom shut-off, King 96 Comm, Hatfield SPF, Cool Start, SS Booms, CP-11 nozzles, AFS check valves, Agrinautics pump w/ electric brake, Shadin fuel flow, Landing light, Hopper rinse tank, Nav lights with strobes and four new batteries. Aircraft will need an annual inspection. North Star Aviation is the First Lift Aviation Dealer. $432,000. Call 620-356-4528. Get Serious About Selling Phone / Fax: 478-987-2250.
CLASSIFIEDS
Aircraft - Other
1998 Thrush S2R/400G -1 Super Airframe: Diet Thrush Approx. 5820 hours TT (840 Time since factory Wing Spar cap kit installed over) Engine: Garrett -1 (Super conversion) with Roughly 1220 hours Since Hot Section (Arkansas Turbines) fresh fuel nozzles, Recent FCU Overhaul, Recent Starter Gen Overhaul Propeller: Hartzell 3 blade 840 SMOH Equipment: AG pilot X GPS with Flow control 400 Gallon Hopper Reabe Digital hopper gauge Large fuel (Approx. 190 Gallons) Single Point bottom load Fuel Shadin Fuel Flow Meter uAvionix AV-20 EFIS attitude indicator Garmin Comm with Stratus ADSB Electric Fan Brake AFS Booms/ Check valves/CP nozzles & SS ball valve Smoker Hopper Rinse system Vortex Generators (ATS) Dual Landing lights NAV / Strobe lights Windshield wiper/washer Air conditioning 48V Starting system Tinted windows installed NEW Mesh seat NEW tailwheel spring And MORE!!! Owner open to trade offers on AG and General aviation Aircraft - Aircraft can be sold with a fresh Annual! Please Call ASI Jet Sales for more information! *Specifications subject to verification upon inspection by purchaser. $425K. Call 320-587-7615.
1989 S2R-T34 Single Cockpit, N3097K, Serial number T34-115, 17,000 TTAF/engine, OH Prop 5/22, 12-9-2016 Century Wing Spars installed, 9/10/18 Micro Vortex, Generators, 2020 Paint, Load Hawg, Engine work done by R.T Turbines at 14,799.3 hours, 2020 R.T. Turbines new V-ring, blades. $350K. Call 229-220-6343.
2018 510G-H80 Thrush, Currently working, TTAE 2400, SATLOC G4, Air Repair Hydraulic Gate, SS Booms & Hangers, Load Hawg, Smoker & Rinse Tank. Well-maintained great flying airplane. Available Oct/Nov or possibly earlier w/fresh annual. $700K. Call Carlo or Felicia at 870-355-4006. Will consider any offer. Expecting 200 more hours.
2019 510P-34 Thrush, Currently working, TTAE 1750, Loadmaster 4-blade Prop, SATLOC G4, Air Repair Hydraulic Gate, Standard Booms, Load Hawg, Smoker & Rinse Tank. Well-maintained great flying airplane. Available Oct/Nov or possibly earlier w/fresh HSI & annual. $1,100,000. Call Carlo or Felicia at 870-3554006. Will consider any offer. Expecting 200 more hours.
1991 S2R-T34 Thrush, N672EH, 11,349 TTAF, PT6A -42 engine, TSO 3583.6, Load Master 4-blade propeller, Power Pressure Cowling with Quick Change Power Filter System, GPS SATLOC M3, Flow Control, Intelliflow, Spray Pump, Booms, Winglets, New Paint. Call Turbines Inc at 812-877-2587. Get Serious About Selling Phone / Fax: 478-987-2250.
1938 Boeing A75N1(PT17), N54284, TTAF 6080.7, R985-AN-14B, TTE 520.4, Annual 6/2021, Garmin SL-40COM, Garmin GTX 327 TXP, PS Engineering PM-1200, Installed Oilmatic Pre-oiler, Installed Airwolf remote oil filter, Smoker, Speed ring, total fuel 56 gallons, Redline brakes, Garmin GDL 82 ADSB-OUT. Call 573-359-0500.
1961 Snow S-2C, N9469R (Forerunner of Air Tractor) Serial No.: 1106C, TTAF: 2,374.2 Hours, P&W R985, Time SMOH: unknown, Propeller: Hamilton Standard variable pitch. Notes: Previous owner (crop-duster pilot) deceased Sept. 2022. Airplane was always hangared. Unused since 2018, parked in rural hangar in the West Texas semi-arid climate (dusty but not rusty). $35K OBO. Call 806-828-5892.
70
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agairupdate.com | 91
CLASSIFIEDS
Aircraft - Helicopters
1962 Snow S-2C, N1607S (Forerunner of Air Tractor) Serial No.: 1148C, TTAF: 2,358.1 Hours, P&W R1340, Time SMOH: unknown, Propeller: Hamilton Standard variable pitch. Notes: Previous owner (crop-duster pilot) deceased Sept. 2022. Airplane was always hangared. Unused since 2018, parked in rural hangar in the West Texas semi-arid climate (dusty but not rusty). $40K OBO. Call 806-828-5892.
1956 Call-Air A-4 N6046C Serial No: 159, TTAF: 1,015.2 Hours, Lycoming O-320, 150 HP, Time SMOH: unknown, Propeller: McCauley fixed pitch. Notes: Previous owner (crop-duster pilot) deceased Sept. 2022. Airplane was always hangared. Unused since 2018, parked in rural hangar in the West Texas semi-arid climate (dusty but not rusty). $12,500 OBO. Call 806-828-5892. Brand new 2022 Laviasa PA-25-235 Puelche. Ready to ship or fly. SMOH 0.0 hrs. TT 0.0 hrs. Lycoming O-540B2C5. 1A200/FA8452 prop. 180 gallons hopper and complete spray system. 53 gallons center fuel tank. Call +54 9 346246-3488. 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 850-380-6091.
PT6A-34 PCE-57524 For Sale, TSN 8341.4, FSN 15632, SCN 3912, EOS Overhaul. Call for pricing 817-354-2002.
REDUCED 1969 Bell G4A,11550 ACTT, 468 Since 1200 insp., VO-540 B1B3 508 SOH, with Hi-domes, Brackett filt, No-Bar, Tex. sprag, Fix. Elev, Duals, Jasco Alt. Air Wolf Oil filter, APU, Hooker Har. Bruce custom covers, LED NAV/BCN, “0” Since 300 hr Grip insp. new R/L side door windows with sliders, Specs upon request, too many new parts to list. Includes Isolair B3600 sys. with Hyd. 2” pump, and Agnav Silver with Auto Cal and Int 4900 mix truck with recent: pumps, fuel tanks & filt, trailer available. Call 910-876-2519.
Engine - Piston Pratt & Whitney R-985 & R-1340 Engines in stock. All with new pistons installed. Overhauled by Aero Recip, Covington, Tulsa and Younkin. Call 661257-7708. R-985 & R-1340 Complete OHC Cylinder Assemblies OHC in stock, all with new pistons installed and all gaskets and seals to install. We also stock new and overhauled magnetos, OHC carbs, starters fuel pumps, etc. Top overhaul tool kits $250 each. Call 661-257-7708. R1340 Engine Overhaul - New pistons, new bearings, mags, ignition harness, carb, with warranty outright/exchange. For more information, call Chester Roberts Supply Company. Call 903429-6805. R985-AN1-14B Tulsa Overhaul, New pistons, Bosch mags, ignition harness, carb with warranty outright/exchange. For more information, call Chester Roberts Supply Company. Call 903429-6805.
Engine - Turbine 2007 RV8, 311 Hr Since New, Lycoming IO-360 Engine, 1882 Hrs SMOH, Hartzell Prop, ICOM 210 Radio, Beacon. $122,500. Call 229-725-4150.
Get Serious About Selling Phone/ Fax 478-987-2250.
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PT6A-27 PCE-50280 For Sale, TSN:18727.7, CSN:1412, TSO:3260, SCO:4245 Call for pricing 817-354-2002.
PT6A-34AG Exchange Engine, Part Number 302088, Serial Number PEC-RB0343. Available for immediate delivery. PT6A rotating component service life record is in the pictures. Contact our experienced sales team today at sales@taeaerospace.com or visit our website, taeaerospace.com, to find out more about our extensive PT6A services. PT6A-27 PCE-52017 For Sale, TSN:15350.48, CSN:21502, TSO:3575.68, SCO:8514 For pricing call Paul at 305-825-2001 or email preeves@jsamiami.com.
For Sale - Turbine Engine, Model: PT627, Serial Number: PCE-41211, TSOH: 16,800, Running good when removed. Complete, Prop Gov, Overspeed Gov, Starter Gen, FCU, Fuel Nozzles. $70,000 Call Donnie Ripley at L&W Flying Service 830-275-1127.
Equipment - Booms SUPERBOOMS, Thrush Servos; Maintenance on Ag & G.A. Aircraft Including Heavy Structural Repairs; Robinson Helicopter Service Center; Machining, Fabricating & Sheet Metal Gurus. Call 701-642-5777.
Equipment Miscellaneous Dispersal Miscellaneous Items For Sale - 50 brass T-Jet nozzles complete with swirl plates $250. Transland gate box for hopper SS good condition, 25 inch $500. Cal Max Helmet large, very good, complete w/ face plates. Wired for headset. $500. One alternator, new, 100 amp, adapter for P&W engines, electrical parts for night spraying $600. Call Al at 208-569-3407. (2)Transland SS 22274 38” to 25” gate box adapters & 21966 Gate Boxes. $2500 Each or $4000 for both plus shipping. Call 620-525-6712. New without warranty spray equipment for all Air Tractor models, including pumps, booms, and nozzles. Call for pricing and availability. 817-456-5450 Various Ag Cat Spares available. Please contact us for the price at spares@ orsmondaviation.co.za +27 58 303 5261 or visit our website at https:// orsmondaviation.co.za/. Fire Gate Hatfield Hydraulic Drop Door, USFS / BLM approved, Fits Thrush, Dromader, can be adapted to Air Tractor 502 or 802, excellent condition, with streamlined fairings, all controls included. $5,000 Any reasonable offer accepted! Needs to go! S.E.A.T. program is expanding. Pilot/contractor training available. Call 530-345-9919. For sale: Trotter Controls computerized fire gates (4) FRDS GEN I and (1) FRDS GEN II, (2) GEN I available immediately, and 2 GEN I and 1 GEN II available spring of 2023. All systems are complete (less the wire harness), asking $250K for all (5) or $65K each. Systems were removed operational to upgrade to the GEN III system. Call 506-261-5023.
AT-802 Hatfield Fire Gate - New Production ready to ship! Original Hydraulic Clam Shell Design, STC, BLM & IATB Approved. Proven reliable design, currently fighting fires in North & South America. Built tough, lighter weight, and affordable pricing available options. Other aircraft models available - STC on All models of AT, Thrush, and M18 Dromader with short lead time. Call 616-837-9428. Cockpit adjustable flow control kit. Manual control or GPS variable rate ready. Integrates into existing hydraulic systems. Call 541-385-5051. For Sale - High quality Stainless Steel booms, pumps and nozzles! On the shelf and ready to ship. Contact mark@ turbineconversions.com.
Equipment - Nozzles New Zanoni Equipment Atomizers in stock and ready to ship at Turbine Conversions, Ltd in Michigan. High quality, stainless steel, tested, proven, and US operators are loving these atomizers. Call 616-837-9428.
Equipment - Pumps New and overhauled Air Tractor and Thrush boost pumps in stock. Delco A4949 motor with 400 GPH AN4101 fuel pump attached. Outright and exchange. We supply these direct to both factories. Call 661-257-7708.
Equipment Spreaders New stainless steel spreader for sale, has never been used. Purchased it for our plane but does not fit. I believe it fits a Thrush. $5000 Price does not include shipping. Call Bart at 561-261-9740. Transland Spreader, 25” Slimline in fair condition. $750. Call 478-494-3757. Transland 10 vane spreader for 38” gate, new, $13,000. Call 281-3425451. 38-inch Transland Spreader for a Vondran gate for AT, Only used once. Part #23537 Serial #TR32034-1. $12,000. Call 701-321-0767. Three Thrush Spreaders, good condition. $8000 for all, or make an offer for one. Call 701-321-0767. Transland Swath Master - FTO never used. Fits 10” Hydraulic gate. 806778-1418. $16,000. 806-778-1418.
Equipment -Support Ground Support Engine Driven Transfer Pump, Zanoni Equipment’s all stainless steel construction paired with a Honda 13 HP motor. Call 616-837-9428.
CLASSIFIEDS
281-342-5451
888-995-5263 TEL • 281-232-5401 FAX
Compro
Smoker
ALL THE PARTS YOU NEED… IN ONE PASS. info@laneav.com www.laneav.com
With over 7,000 different ag aircraft parts in stock and instant access to many others, Lane Aviation offers convenience and experience you can count on. P.O. Box 432 • Rosenberg, Texas 77471 T54 - Lane Airpark agairupdate.com | 93
CLASSIFIEDS 3” load, mix tank, fully contained and lockable, air compressor and storage complete and ready to go. Call 877715-8476. Like new portable load pad suitable for an 802. Very little use. $24,000. Call 877-715-8476.
GPS 3 - Complete Trac Map Flight 3 systems (lightbar, head unit, cables, antenna etc.) Miscellaneous Trac Map Flight 3 Parts - Light Bars, Cables, Wireless Dongles. Satloc - Light bar and cable Ag Nav - Ag Flow 1 Screens (6 total). Screen and mounting brackets only. Make me an offer on it all or willing to part out separate. 306-786-3345. Wanted: SATLOC Bantams, G4 Units & Flow Controllers. Call Mike at Orsmond Aerial Spray (Pty) Ltd +27 58 303 5261 or email mikep@orsmondaviation.co.za Helicopter light bar now available with the new iPad based guidance system AgPilotX. Entire system with helicopter light bar is 13 lbs. Call Anthony Fay with Insero for details 480-285-4367.
Help Wanted Air Tractor is seeking qualified candidates for the full-time position of test pilot. Candidates must have a minimum of 2000hr total time with 1000hrs of ag and 1000hrs time in Air Tractor turbine-powered airplanes. A commercial pilot certificate with high performance and tail wheel endorsements is required. Applicants must be a U.S. Citizen. Candidates must have the ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Desirable skills include Air Tractor approved flight instructor, CFI, experience interfacing with FAA, A&P license, and chemical applicator license. Must be able to work with people well. This is a hands-on pilot job that includes performing various hands-on activities with tools in hand. Duties: Moving airplanes on the ground, initial setup, and rigging of the airplane, making the first flight on planes, and completing the production test flight according to published procedures. correcting discrepancies, coordinating with production planning, sales, production leads, and quality to help synchronize flight test schedules. For more information, email: valperez@ airtractor.com. Pilot Needed for Midwest Operation - 502, 602, and 802 experience helpful. A&P plus a CDL is helpful but not required. If the applicant has A&P, possible year-round employment. Inquiries must include a resume or list of total times. Email blindads@ agairupdate.com Subject: ID #AAU1497.
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Looking for an ag pilot to fly -41 powered Thrush. The season runs from mid-May through August. The main application is fungicide/insecticide maybe a little herbicide depending on canidates experience. No travel required. Call or email for details. 719349-9622 kevin.ebsen@gmail.com. Ag Pilot Wanted - Looking to hire a long-term Ag Pilot for a well-established business with 45 years located in central North America. Must have experience and turbine time. This is a great opportunity if you are serious about the Ag Aviation business. Diverse crop-based, primarily fungicide, insecticide, and dry work. Pay and benefits are negotiable based on experience. Work is from mid-April to mid-September. Please email your resume or a list of total times to blindads@ agairupdate.com. Subject: ID#1239. AT-802 Timber pilot needed for rotation mid-January through mid-May. AT-802 Corn run pilot needed from mid-June to mid-August. Minimum experience - 500 hours 802 time or high-time 502 or 602 pilot. Email resume to cropdoctoral@ hotmail.com or call/text 870-510-6882. Tabula, formerly known as TracMap, is a GPS guided proof of application and job management system that gives landowners and their contractors certainty. Due to continued growth in the United States, Tabula is hiring a new Regional Aviation Business Development Team Members for the Southern Eastern United States region to focus on our AirVision System. This position will be based out of our Melbourne, Florida location. 2 Professional Turbine Ag Pilots for the 2024 spray season. Operating Thrush 510P aircraft from May 15, 2024 to October 15, 2024. Job duties include providing aerial application on fields primarily in Saskatchewan and possibly other provinces. Must be insurable on Thrush 510P aircraft, and capable of operating a Satloc GPS system or able to learn it. Must be able to speak, read, and write proficient English. Accident-free flight record is preferred. Housing and vehicle can be provided if needed. Wage is $50/ hour, 40 hours/week. Performance-based bonus is offered. Workers compensation provided. Call Justin Farr at Farr Air Inc. 306-861-6675 or 306-848-1044. Looking for experienced pilots to fly our well-maintained AT-502’s. This is a full-time turbine position in the Upper Midwest, spanning from May to mid-September. We spray a large variety of crops with fungicide and insecticide with some herbicide, along with cover crop spreading. Must have herbicide experience. We offer competitive pay adjusted by experience. Be willing to travel the Midwest in-season. All inquiries must include a resume or list of total times. Email blindads@ agairupdate.com, Subject: ID#327.
Aerial Crop Duster. We require one pilot for the 2024 season, full time, seasonal, May-September, to work in the Kindersley Saskatchewan area. Must have a valid Commerical Pilot’s License, valid Saskatchewan Aerial Pesticide License, Turbine Transition Training, valid medical certification & English proficiency. Must have experience flying 510P Thrush or similar. Expected to have 5 years or more experience with a minimum of 1000 hours turbine ag experience. Training bonds may be offered but will apply to minimum 2 years employment. Should have S.A.A.A. and C.A.A.A. memberships. Duties: to fly fixed wing turbine aircraft safely and efficiently with SATLOC GPS flight computer, to work with customers to create spray orders, to work in a professional manner with ground support crews, to perform daily checks on turbine powered aircraft, to keep work logs in an orderly fashion, to be available to work when conditions are optimum, to keep current their licenses and to mentor junior and first year pilots. Essential Skills: reading, document use, numeracy, writing, oral communication, problem solving, decision making, critical thinking, job task planning and organizing, computer use, significant use of memory. Salary: $80.00 per hour 40-60 hours per week. Additional Information please apply by email to advanced.aviation@sasktel.net. Kindersley Airspray Ltd. P.O. Box 2005 Kindersley Saskatchewan Canada S0L1S0 1-306-463-4600. Well-established company in California looking to hire a long-term experienced AT-502B Pilot. Insecticide, Fungicide, Seed & Fertilizer. Crops include Orchards, Rice, Vegetables & Row Crops. E-mail resume and references to blindads@agairupdate.com Subject ID#AAU2254. South Central Business is looking for an AT-802 pilot. Must be reliable and have a good work ethic. All inquiries must include a resume or list of total times. Email inquiries to blindads@agairupdate.com, Subject: ID#AAU2370. Full-time Pilot position North Dakota - Looking for an experienced pilot to fly AT-502/602. The season runs from mid-May through September. The main application is fungicide/insecticide; herbicide experience is preferred. The position may include some travel during the season. Call or email for details. 701-339-8799 gravesen.chad@gmail. com. Looking for a level 1 seat pilot for 2024 and beyond for an exclusive use contract. Contact Patrick Mertens at 970-571-0871.
Aerial Crop Services LLC is currently looking to add an experienced AT802 pilot to our team. This position will be for a 2020 AT802 with Satloc G4 system. We are located in SE Missouri and have a busy season spanning around 8 months. We currently are a team of 3 aircraft, 2 AT802’s and an AT502, that is continually growing our operating area and customer base. We are looking for a pilot who simply will treat the business like it is their own. We are looking for someone who is dependable, detail-oriented, and will be a great team member. Please feel free to reach out to me directly at scott.m@ aerialcropservices.com or 573-6830893 if you are interested. FAA maintenance facility is seeking a skilled mechanic to join the maintenance team at an industryleading aviation center. Qualified candidates must have Airframe & Powerplant Certificate with at least five years of experience working in Ag Aviation. Must be able to stand, stoop, squat, or kneel for eight or more hours on concrete, lift up to 65 lbs., follow inspection checklists, and fix discrepancies. Self-motivated individuals should be able to see the end goal at the early stages for the maintenance process and be a team player. Competitive pay, 100% employer-paid health insurance with vision and dental options, 401k, paid holidays, vacation, and sick time. Interested parties should return a completed application with a current resume. Contact Joe Risner – Director of Maintenance for more information. 800-325-0885 | joe@ midcont.com. Pilot Needed in North Dakota - A 2018 AT-502XP pilot is needed to cover up to 122,000 acres. Experience is needed. Travel required. Call for details 701321-0767. Jones Aviation is looking for a full time, experienced helicopter A & P mechanic. We are located in northern California. Maintenance will be performed on site. Experience with UH-1H would be preferred. We would be willing to help with relocation costs. Needs to be a team player but not afraid to lead. Overtime might be required during seasonal times of year. Contact Chris (530)321-1253. FAA Part 137 Operator, looking for new A&P’s and experienced A&P’s. Air Tractors & Bell Helicopters. “Aircraft Type” experience not as important as: Conscentious, organized, willing to learn, get things done, team players. Will perform/participate in Sheduled/Unscheduled Maintenance & Inspections. Maintain support equipment/shop. Full time/Year Round. $23-$32 hr DOE. Some Benefits & Vacation US Citizen or Valid Work Visa. Send Resume: DOM@trirotorllc.com.
CLASSIFIEDS Large Midwest aerial application business looking for A&P and IA mechanics. Must have Air Tractor and PT6A experience. The starting salary is 70-80K if qualified. Must supply a resume and three references. Include resume and references when inquiring. Ad ID#154 *Business location is not in GA. Call 478-987-2250. Looking for Ag & King Air Simulator Instructors. Instructors are 1099 contractors. Work is on a per-student basis. 1-3 day courses and paid by the day. Work one one-on-one with the students. Classroom and simulator instruction. Days are 9-5 with no weekends. Lodging fees are covered for instructors who travel to our location to teach. Flight instructor certificate is not needed. Looking for someone who has an Ag pilot background/experience. Turbine experience is a must. Could be active or retired. Must have an interest in teaching and passing on their knowledge to others in the industry. Please include a resume when inquiring. Ad ID#153. blindads@agairupdate.com. IA and A&P mechanics needed. Call 870-295-6213 Salary depending on qualifications and experience. Full-time mechanic needed, A&P or IA preferred, though we will consider previous experience and facilitating training in the future. 60% new aircraft with annuals and routine maintenance filling in the rest of the workload. Steady work all year, full insurance and retirement benefits, clean and modern facilities. Competitive pay depending on experience. Please email resumes. logan@laneav.com. North Dakota aviation operation looking for an Experienced pilot/manager to co-manage FBO, Airport, and Aerial spraying operation. 802 and Turbine Thrush. Season runs mid-June through September. Potential opportunity to partner/purchase operation in the near future. Start putting your time and efforts into your building your own operation!! FBO and Airport management provide steady income streams to help make it through the slow seasons. Email resume and references. luke@ltenterprisesnd.com. LIFT AVIATION – Marketing Assistant Job - Lift Aviation is looking for a motivated person to assist with brand marketing and sales initiatives in conjunction with trade shows, brand building, and sales generation. Job Type: Full-time, Onsite Only, Hourly Pay, Travel possible. Email resume and references to Todd Lentz at todd@liftaviationusa.com For further information go to classifieds. agairupdate.com. Best Classified Buy In The Industry. Read By More Ag Pilots Than Any Other Publication. Phone / Fax: 478-987-2250.
Experienced Engine & Component Technicians Needed - TAE Aerospace is a global aerospace company, servicing commercial and defense customers worldwide. We create value for customers through innovative thinking, premium quality products, and services in aerospace engineering, manufacturing, turbine engine, and component MRO. Located across the globe, our maintenance facilities in Australia and in America are the leading provider of quality general aviation, aerial agricultural, turboprop engine, and component maintenance. Right now, we are looking for experienced Engine and Component Technicians to join our teams in Adelaide, South Australia, and Scottsdale, Arizona. If you have proven TPE331, PT6A or GE H80 experience or have worked in a similar role, and looking for your next challenge – we want you! Find out more about joining our team. email: Hr-support@taeaerospace.com phone: +61(0)881500200 or visit: www.taeaerospace.com. B&S Air Inc. is looking for an experienced Helicopter Spray Pilot for the 2023 season. 1000 Hours of Turbine Spray time on forestry work is required. Work will be guaranteed from April-November of 2023, with the possibility of a long-term seat. Please contact Chase Gibson directly at 228860-2375 to discuss the seat. https:// www.bandsairinc.com/
Call for Availability
Mix Truck Driver/Helicopter Loader PLEASE CONTACT CHASE GIBSON DIRECTLY at 228-860-2375 or email resume to chase@bsairinc. com. QUALIFICATIONS: Class A or B CDL required with tanker and hazmat endorsements. Experience in related field is helpful; clean driving record, must pass regular drug and alcohol screenings; must be willing to travel and work outside in the elements, and some heavy lifting may be required. Immediate permanent relocation is not necessary. JOB DESCRIPTION: Our company provides silvicultural services for many types of customers throughout the US South and Midwest. This job offers workers a chance to travel and interact with many different types of leaders in the forestry industry. This is a great opportunity to advance with our company or to meet other persons in the industry that may help to further your career. This job will require you to be on the road from March-end of October with off time November-February. Our helicopter crews often work long hours and 7 day work weeks. Duties include: Driving mix truck from one spray location to the next with the help of the crew leader for navigation and filling the helicopter with chemicals. Necessary training will be provided to complete these tasks. Stays at hotel required while working out of town or at company owned apartment when working near our office. Ideal candidate will be willing to work hard with a positive attitude, work long hours and work as a team to help make the crew productive.
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CLASSIFIEDS Tabula - Due to continued growth in the United States, Tabula is hiring a new Regional Aviation Business Development Team Members for the Canadian Market and the Southern Central United States region to focus on our AirVision System. To apply, please send your CV and cover letter to recruitment@tabula.live For further information go to classifieds. agairupdate.com.
Well established company in Ohio looking for a long-term experienced AT402 pilot - 2023 and beyond. Housing is available. Fungicide, insecticide, fertilizer, seeding work on corn, beans, wheat, and some vegetables. Send resume to chadniese@embarqmail.com Call Chad at 419-235-4182.
Tabula - Due to continued growth in the United States, Tabula is hiring a new Regional Aviation Business Development Team Members for the Southern Central United States region to focus on our AirVision System. To apply, please send your CV and cover letter to recruitment@ tabula.live For further information go to classifieds.agairupdate.com.
Miscellaneous Items For Sale - 50 brass T-Jet nozzles complete with swirl plates $250. Gate box for hopper SS good condition, 24 inch $500. Cal Max Helmet large, very good, complete w/ face plates $500. One alternator, new, 100 amp, adapter for P&W engines, electrical parts for night spraying $600. Call Al at 208-569-3407
R44- Looking for an experienced R44 Ag pilot for the Midwest this season that can move into turbine rotor in the future. Also seeking experienced fixed-wing turbine pilots. SATLOC GPS would be helpful. Please provide your resume and references via email. Pay is determined by the applicant’s experience. Email all inquiries to blindads@agairupdate.com Subject: ID#42.
AV-KOR1 Helmets Available Now! The AV-KOR1 helmet is made out of a fiberglass composite, utilizing Koroyd and an anti-microbial comfort liner making it the lightest aviation helmet on the market. Features Fire Retardant trim and a FIDLOCK buckle system. Works with any aftermarket in-helmet communications devices. North Star Aviation is the First Lift Aviation Dealer. Call North Star Aviation today at 620-356-4528.
Looking for a few good pilots to fly 400-turbine Air Tractors. Willing to help with the turbine transition for the corn run. Perfect opportunity for a piston pilot. Call or text Craig at 815-499-4704.
Specialty belt buckles, show your pride in style. $39.99 plus S&H Makes a great gift! For more information call 478-987-2250
Miscellaneous
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Toy plastic model Air Tractor. 12” wingspan, removable stand. Great toy for the kids or desktop model. $15 + s/h order online at www.takeofftoys.com or e-mail trevoredwards@sw.rr.com Vino? They do say ag pilots age like wine. Place your favorite wine in these high quality Rolf wine glasses etched with an ag plane, sold as a Set of 4. $49.99 plus S&H Makes a great gift. For more information call 478-987-2250 Aviator Backpack and matching coin purse (sold separately). For more information call 478-987-2250 New from our DeSpain Collection, Pen and Ink Thirsty Stone Coasters. These high quality coasters will look great on any desktop or table. Set of 4. $29.99 plus S&H Makes a great gift! For more information call 478-987-2250 DeSpain Collection Customizable Note Cards featuring your favorite Pen and Ink drawing. $19.99 plus S&H For more information call 478-987-2250
Operations For Sale or Wanted Pacific Northwest Ag Operation for Sale. Owned hangars on private land, multiple aircraft operation with all the support equipment. Clean, neat, and profitable. Email inquiries to blindads@agairupdate.com Subject: ID#2360 NDA will be emailed to all inquires to sign. 478-987-2250 Ag business for sale in Texas. Located on the city airport, 3900 ft paved runway, two big drive-thru hangars, 502B Air Tractor, forklift, and loading equipment. Crops are dry land and irrigated and also brush and pear. There is very little traffic at the airport. We can stay and help if needed. The business was started in the early 70’s, and we have owned it for over 35 years. Business is well established. Will not owner finance. Only serious inquiries. Must include contact information. Email inquiries to blindads@agairupdate.com Subject: ID#486. Property For Sale - 21-acre airstrip for sale. Is/was an aerial operation. Shifting focus to another location. Currently selling just as a real estate property but can include all customer lists and equipment currently on site. 4 bedroom house with 3 bathrooms. Large pool with bathhouse. 2500’ paved runway with 1700’ parallel turf. 80’x80’ hangar with powerlift doors. It will fit two 802’s. The air-conditioned office can be converted into a bunkhouse for guests if desired. Chemical warehouse and 3-stall covered garage. Email aaron@ advantageagair.us with questions.
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Turnkey business for sale in southcentral Washington. This has been a well-established, one-airplane aerial application business for many decades at the same location. The area has a diversified agriculture and a great potential for expansion. Please contact me by email at agpilot54@gmail.com.. Ag business for sale in Texas. Located on the city airport, 3900 ft paved runway, two big drive-thru hangars, 502B Air Tractor, forklift, and loading equipment. Crops are dry land and irrigated and also brush and pear. There is very little traffic at the airport. We can stay and help if needed. The business was started in the early 70’s, and we have owned it for over 35 years. Business is well established. Will not owner finance. Only serious inquiries. Must include contact information. Email inquiries to blindads@agairupdate.com Subject: ID#486. Call 478-987-2250. Looking for a warm place in the winters to keep busy. We have what you need! Turnkey Aerial Spray Business for sale due to health reasons. Central United States. Established business with airplanes and helicopters on a private strip. Multiple locations, buildings, hangars, and house. Email inquiries to blindads@agairupdate.com Subject: ID#150. Call 478-987-2250.
Parts - Airframe Thrush S2R wings with Century spars, 55000 hours remain ready for paint. Price $120,000 Call Patrick at 989763-0195. Reinforced Thrush Leading Edges - Send your leading edges to us, and we will reinforce them with durable custom extruded aluminum reinforcements. Available directly from Turbine Conversions, Ltd. Call 616-837-9428. Thrush S2R STC battery retrofit kit. 300% longer battery service life. 200% faster starts. Battery replacement costs 25% of the original. Call 541-3855051. Ag Cat Frameworks, All Models, 4130 weld assys, fixture perfect, ready to install. Struts, wires, hoppers, long fuel, high-wings, dispersal equipment, hardware, all upgrades, components, and spares. Call 870-886-2418. New Brushless Motor Airframe Fuel Pump - STC kits for PT6 Air Tractor and THRUSH aircraft. Long lasting, solid state, with fail safes. Call 509635-1212. AT-502 sheet metal. Some new, some used, all airworthy. Mostly fwd. lower fuselage. $500 for all OBO. Will box and ship for materials and labor. Call 530-345-9919. Call 530-345-9919.
CLASSIFIEDS
281-342-5451 Ayres Thrush ‘Hoerner’ wing tips. Left and right, no damage. $500 for the pair. Call Gary at 530-345-9919 garyhendricksonn3n@gmail.com.
Parts - Engine PT6A-140AG 867SHP STC Kit for THRUSH 510P & 510G Aircraft Complete Firewall forward bolt-on STC kits for the 510G and 510P. Thrush model aircraft. Contact Cascade Aircraft to secure the 867SHP-certified upgrade STC kit for your THRUSH 510 aircraft. Call 509-635-121. Radial Parts: 2 Fiberglass AT Speed Rings, 1 THRUSH Speed Ring, 1 Radial engine mount with ring. Make offer. Call 509-635-1212. Complete stock of all P&W R-985 & R-1340 engine parts. Also P&W tools, Top OH tool kits, Time Rite kits, engine mounts, Champion & Tempest spark plugs, parts books, OH and maintenance manuals, Mags, carbs, starters, fuel pumps boost pumps. Also, R-1830, R-200, R-2800 engines and parts. Call 661257-7708. Pratt & Whitney Engine Cores, Engine Parts Inventories, Cylinders, Starters, Fuel Pumps and Boost Pumps. Call 661-257-7708. Thrush H-80 STC SA04485CH Top Hat Header Tank Modification. STC solves issues with FCU and extends the factory recommended replacement of the auxiliary fuel pump from 500 hours to 3,500 hours. Currently have 4 spots open for early 2024 delivery. Contact your favorite Thrush dealer or Ann@turbineconversions.com for more details.
Parts - Other 2013 AT-502B Firewall forward parts: Engine mount, cowling and Ram Air filter system. All parts with less than 1400 hours total time. Very clean and well maintained AT-502B. Call Cascade Aircraft Conversions for more details 1-509-635-1212. Transland Grip Steps for AT aircraft. Call Billy Maxwell at Transland 940-6871100 or email sales@translandllc.com for more information. Transland 4” Delrin Hopper Vents. Call Billy Maxwell at Transland 940-6871100 or email sales@translandllc.com for more information. Transland Aluminum Boom Clamps Large & Small. Call Billy Maxwell at Transland 940-687-1100. Transland Pump Mount. Call Billy Maxwell at Transland 940-687-1100.
LA-K-009 Leaf Spring Conversion Kit PA25 - CTS 1109.21 - Speed increase, large service life, and minimum maintenance. Kit includes spring, brackets, installation hardware, and certs. Made by Lavia SA, manufacturer of the PA-25 Puelche. Call +54 (362) 463-488. Tools for reaming attach bolts wing main (Center wing to outboard wing) Attachment joints for Dromader M-18 per repair service bulletin #e/02.170/2000 Available for rent. Contact ann@turbineconversions.com or 616-837-9428.
Seat Wanted Looking for corn run break-in-seat opportunity. I have 420 total hours and 270 tailwheel time. I have applicator licenses and 7 years of experience with chemicals and spraying with ground sprayers. Call 318-439-8914. Experienced Loader, CFI - Working on my second year loading now. Trained with Eagle Vistas over the winter on AG with John Becker. Some Ag-Cat and Pawnee time, 25 hours ag, 850 total, 150 tailwheel. I have my CFI, multi, and instrument. Looking for a seat in a plane, willing to load for the right company. 417-763-7675. Looking for long-term seat in the US. I have an interesting combination of Aviation Engineering, Flight Training and Flight Experience, both Rotary Wing and Fixed Wing. Currently flying Thrush 510, Robinson 44, Robinson 66 and King Air C90. Experience in liquid application, aerial seeding and aerial fertilization. I am also URT (Upset Recovery Training) and aerobatics flight instructor giving instruction for more than 80 pilots already including AG pilots on how to recover airplanes form upset attitudes. Pilot Licenses: ATP, IFR Helicopter, CFI, TT Rotary Wing 1,500 hours. Resume and references are attached. For more information email cerionidiego@gmail.com.
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AIRCRAFT 2024 AIR TRACTORS, RESERVE YOUR POSITION NOW.....................$CALL$
ENGINES R-1340, ZERO TIME SINCE OVERHAUL BY COVINGTON ...................$75,000 NEW PT6 -11, 15, 34, 60, 65, 67 OUTRIGHT OR EXCHANGE .............. $CALL$
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AK Bush Pilot Looking for AG Pilot Slot - 25 yrs AK bush. Central America Missionary pilot. 7500 TT, 1250 DHC3, 250 DHC3T. Train me so I can spray for you. See resume for details or email Will at whframingconsultant2@gmail.com. Mature and teachable Ag Pilot, seeking to learn from other professionals. Either as an Ag Pilot or a ground crewman. Extensive farm and aviation maintenance background. Four seasons loading and Ag pilot experience. Flight time is as follows, 1240 TT, 645 Ag, 40 Turbine. A&P mechanic. Please email AgAir41@outlook.com Thank You.
info@laneav.com www.laneav.com
P.O. Box 432 • Rosenberg, Texas 77471 agairupdate.com | 97 T54 - Lane Airpark
CLASSIFIEDS Helicopter pilot turbine/piston 7000+ flight hours looking for opportunity. Willing to work as a loader and hangar to earn a seat. Hardworking and committed to delivering high-quality results. Reliable and dedicated with an excellent safety record and work ethic. Available on short notice. Reach out via call, text or 901-586-7322 or email at Stbrown77@gmail.com. I appreciate your time. Looking forward to hearing from you. Steve.
Experienced AG Pilot looking for Seat, 7500TT, 4300AG, flown all Air Tractors models and Trush planes. Resume available on request. IFlyag66@gmail.com.
Experienced Tail Wheel. Most of my time has been in Turbine and Radial Ag Aircraft. Currently flying corporate and have a flexible schedule.Have a clean and safe record. Looking for ferry or contract flying opportunities. Located in Salt Lake City. Call Ty at 801-232-5777.
Jeffries Airworks 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.
Subcontract for Corn Run Experienced pilot with AT-5, 6, or 802 SATLOC/flow control, extensive SHP time. 701-541-0102.
QUALITY Propellers For Sale 33D50-6601A18 OHC...........$31,500 23D40-6601A18 OHO...........$29,500 22D40-6533A12 OHO...........$26,500 12D40-AG100-4S 375-SOH...$21,000 12D40-AG100-2 828-SOH.....$19,000 HC-B3TN-5M 106 OHC..........$27,000 frank.kelley@ag-cat.com.
Seat Wanted: 19,751 Total Time, 18,022 Turbine Time, 1,252 Ag Time. Licensed in GA and IL. For a resume, call Hale Ellis 678-779-4726. Experienced Pilot Looking For Seat. Experienced in all AT models, 400 and 510 Thrush. TT 5,700, which includes 300 hours in Australia last winter. Current Commercial Applicator license in Texas, Kansas, Nebraska, and Colorado. Call Gerry Black at 806685-3463.
Hamilton Standard Propeller 23D40 with 6511-12S Blades Overhauled Completely. Includes 8130-3 form. Call 903-429-6805.
Vehicles
12D40-6101-12 Propeller, Overhauled with 8130 Form. Call 903-429-6805.
Propellers Hamilton Standard 12D40-Ag100. As removed. $13,500. Call Chad Stuart at Airplane Services, Inc. at 850-380-6091.
Hamilton Standard 23D40 Propeller with new blades 6511A-9 installed. Completely overhauled with 8130-3 form. Call 903-429-6805. Hamilton Standard 22D40 Hydromatic Propeller 6533 blades overhauled complete with distributor valve and prop, Governor. Call 903-429-6805.
Training AG Pilot Minimum Standards at Eagle Vistas. From 0 time or pilots only needing Ag Pilot training. Planes in our Ag Program: Dual Ag Cat GR164A , Dual Cessna 305/L19, & Pawnee PA25/235 Single for Solo/Dump/Spray. Private all in Tailwheel, Tailwheel Proficiency, and UpSet/Spin recovery. Commercial Pilot and Instrument rating availab`le. SATLOC Bantam, TracMap, & AgNav GPS. Ag Aviation Consultants for Ag Operation Certificate part 137. See videos at www.eaglevistas.com. Call 772) 285-5506. Riggin Flight Service, flight school offering private, commercial, instrument, Ag, multi-engine, tailwheel, etc. We tailor our courses to meet your needs. Call 605256-9774.
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:870-697-3568 185 Hwy. 42 West, Hickory Ridge, AR.
The Latest in Global Agricultural Aviation News
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Advertising Index Aero Innovations..............................35
Chester Roberts Supply Company......41
Lane Aviation...................59,89,93,97
AeroFlow Inc...................................63
Concorde Battery.............................13
Lift Aviation....................................23
Ag-Nav, Inc.......................................3
Consolidated Turbine Specialists.......47
Merit Apparel..................................51
AgAviation School............................75
Covington Aircraft..........................100
Micro AeroDynamics........................65
Agrinautics......................................39
Davidson Solid Rock Ins...................41
Micron Sprayers Limited.................. 69
AgriSmart Information Systems.........41
Desser Aerospace............................47
Mid-Continent Aircraft......................71
Air Repair Inc..................................43
Dunn and Dunn Financials...............77
NAA Museum..................................23
Air Tractor Inc...................................2
Electronics International...................73
NAAA.............................................57
Aircraft Spruce & Specialty...............55
Falcon Insurance Agency, Inc. ..........19
Neal Aircraft, Inc.............................27
Airplane Services.............................87
Farm Air, Inc...................................81
North Star Aviation, Inc....................73
Airwolf Aerospace............................67
Fire Boss........................................69
NZSkydive Limited...........................52
American AgViation.........................86
Frost Flying Inc...............................95
Orsmond Aerial Spray......................90
ASI Jet Sales, LLC.......................... 63
Government Sales Inc......................87
Portage Aircraft Specialties ..............93
Auger Dan, LLC...............................31
HP Aviation Hoses...........................65
PowerLift Hydraulic Doors................39
Aviation Hose Shop..........................23
Insero...............................................9
Praxidyn.........................................77
Aviation Products Systems................70
Intercontinental Jet Service..............51
Preferred Airparts............................69
Canadian Propeller..........................31
Isolair, Inc.......................................63
PropWorks......................................37
Capstan AG.................................... 39
Jetset Airmotive Co., Inc................. 85
R. T. Turbines, Inc...........................71
Cascade Aircraft Conversions .......... 45
Kawak Aviation Technologies............67
Reabe Air........................................45
CD Aviation.......................................7 98 | agairupdate.com ChemMan by Datasmart..............75,79
Kimmel Aviation Insurance...............31
S & T Aircraft Accessories, Inc..........87
Kugler Co........................................84
Schweiss Doors...............................85
Southeastern Aircraft Sales..........91,96 Spidertracks Lmt.............................51 Stor-Loc..........................................19 Sun Air Parts...................................37 Tabula..............................................7 TAE Aerospace................................21 Tennessee Aircraft Inc......................67 Thrush Aircraft..................................5 Tiger Performance...........................45 Transland .......................................53 Turbine Conversions LTD..................19 Turbine Standard.............................31 Turbine Training Center...............51,55 Turbines, Inc...................................99 Valley Air Crafts...............................47 Zanoni Equipamentos.......................75 Zee Systems Inc..............................70
CLASSIFIEDS
agairupdate.com | 99
When it comes to PT6A Service & Support, there’s unmatched strength in the
POWER OF ONE. For more than 50 years, Covington has remained true to the power of one. We are one family. Servicing engines from one manufacturer. With one guiding commitment: To build our company one relationship, and one engine, at a time. And, as the one and only family-owned Pratt & Whitney Canada factory-designated overhaul facility, no one knows the PT6A better, nor delivers more uncompromising support. All with a level of trust and compassion you simply won’t find anywhere else. Call or visit us today. It would be our privilege to put the power of one to work for you.
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