AgAir Update | March 2022 by AgAir Update

Volume 40, Number 3 MARCH 2022

AN INSIDE VIEW:

The Department of Defense Aerial Spraying Course

502XP GOES TO ECUADOR | WASH YOUR ENGINES

SAFETY. RELIABILITY. SUPPORT. YOU CAN COUNT ON US EVERY DAY.

WHEN THE WORLD DEMANDS MORE, AIR TRACTOR DELIVERS.

PLATINUM LITE

OLED LIGHTBAR

P550 GPS RECEIVER

FLOW CONTROL

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30 CHURCHILL DR. BARRIE // ONTARIO CANADA // L4N 8Z5 +1 (705) 734-0909 GENERAL@AGNAV.COM

W W W. AG N AV.C O M

IN THIS ISSUE 16

Volume 40, Number 3 MARCH 2022

P.O. Box 850 • Perry, GA 31069 USA 475 Myrtle Field Rd. • Perry, GA 31069 USA PHONE: 478-987-2250 FAX: 478-352-0025 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 Constanitno - daniela@marsaylmedia.com Deborah Freeman - deborah@marsaylmedia.com CIRCULATION: subs@agairupdate.com Mary Jane Virden - maryjane@marsaylmedia.com 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

502XP Goes to Ecuador

FEATURE A18

Nat Nagy Appointed New CEO of Aerial Application Association of Australia

A26

Decisions, Decisions, Decisions

NAAA Endorses and Encourages Ag Aircraft GPS Data Collection Effort Protecting Manned Ag Aircraft from Drones

B22

Operational Planning for Agricultural Aviation

B30

Mind Your Meds

A36

From Generation to Generation - Aero Agrícola Rondon

IN EVERY ISSUE 06

From the Cockpit | Bill Lavender

AgAir Mail | Correspondence with the Industry

Calendar of Events | See What’s Happening

Craymer’s Counsel | Robert Craymer

Insights | National Agricultural Aviation Association

Regina’s Perspective | Regina Farmer

Low and Slow | Mabry I. Anderson

B14

20 Years Ago | Thrash Aviation meets community Wing and a Prayer | Carlin Lawrence

Spreading the Facts | Michelle Miller

NTSB Reports | Accident Synopses

Hopper | Browse the Marketplace

Classifieds | Get Serious About Selling

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On the cover: A 910th Airlift Wing aerial spray modified C-130H Hercules sprays water from its training modular aerial spray system during an aerial spray demonstration, Jan. 12, 2022, at the Northeast Florida Regional Airport.

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FROM THE COCKPIT

Bill Lavender bill@agairupdate.com

Has Spring Arrived? During the last week of February, there have been daytime temperatures in the 80s. The forecast for next week is daytime temperatures in the 70s.

I suppose that is a silly question, “Has spring arrived?” It all depends where you are flying this year. It sure seems like it here in Georgia, albeit several weeks early. During the last week of February, there have been daytime temperatures in the 80s. The forecast for next week is daytime temperatures in the 70s. I’m sure there will be days coming in March that will be much cooler, but I think winter is about over in the South, and I’m glad. This early warm weather (in the South, unlike the freezing in the North) brings on new challenges. Burn down flying with glyphosate will be in full swing beginning the first week of March for many areas. I have spoken with a few operators expecting a good burn down run. All together, operators told me at the Ag Aviation Expo in Savannah they had a good year and are expecting another one in 2022. This is evident with airplane sales that are pretty much booked for the near term; that’s a good thing and a positive reflection on the industry's health. Referencing the NAAA convention, Graham and I could only make three state trade shows in January and February. We were able to attend Louisiana, Mississippi and the SEAF. We were scheduled for several more, but due to family covid-related illnesses (somehow I missed having covid) and bad weather, we could not attend. We’ll take another shot at it next trade show season.

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As you in the northern hemisphere prepare for another season and those in the southern hemisphere start to wind down from hopefully a great season, it does not hurt to pass on some firsthand experience in the form of advice. Taking it for what it is worth, do not skimp on your health. Ag pilots, in particular, are very health-dependent in performing their jobs. Not only do you have to pass a medical at least every two years, you surely need to maintain your health for safety’s sake. Not-so-good health consequences have a way of sneaking up on a person. Oddly enough, you may think you are in good health and not be. In that case, there’s not much you can do about it since you are already taking healthy measures. However, those of you eating bad foods, carrying too much weight, stressed to the max (although that comes with the job), and generally living a negative lifestyle should seriously consider that situation. When your health fails you, that pretty much puts you out of a flying job. Not many of us can survive financially without an income. And that is not taking into consideration surviving, period! Until next month, Keep Turning…

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AGAIR MAIL

aau@agairupdate.com

Bill and Graham; Thank you so much for inviting me to your hangar party just before the Ag Aviation Expo in 2021! I

decision. With thanks, Seamus Hoban Australia

know it took a ton of time and effort to put it together. It was noticed and

Seamus;

appreciated. (You can tell I’m old

Good Morning;

school).

I referenced the article in question,

Regards, Daniel Funk

and it seems Field Air, the original author of the calculator has changed their website,. I have included a

Daniel;

new link below: https://www.fieldair.

Thanks for coming! We had a great

com.au/aircraft-operations/ground-

turnout, and can’t wait until the next

vs-air/. Thanks! — Graham

one.— Graham

Graham, Bill & Staff; On behalf of the LAAA Board of

Good Day! We have read your September 2021 issue about Terry's Ag Sales on

Directors, Thank You for attending

page 14. We are trying to connect

and supporting the LAAA. It is your

with the engine shop but we are not

unwavering support that helps make

able to reach them, we are very much

LAAA a success! Also, we cannot

interested to communicate with them

thank you enough for the booklets,

for overhauling our propellers.

they looked AMAZING! Have a Great Year! Clay Vincent, President Louisiana Agricultural Aviation Association

We have 11 Grumman AG-Cat planes and we're commencing our agricultural spray here in the Philippines. It would be a huge help if you may provide us with any contact details of Terry's Ag Sales.

Clay;

Hoping for a positive response

It’s our pleasure to support the

regarding this matter.

State associations, and always great to see our friends in Louisiana! — Graham

Thank you and keep safe! Best regards, Sheneth Franz R. Petilla Davao Aerowurkz Corp. Philippines

Hello, I came across the article below

Hello Sheneth;

regarding the difference between

That article is a column we run each

aerial and ground application,

month from 20 Years Ago. It is a

however, I notice that the link to

historical article, and they are no

the calculator doesn’t work. Are you

longer in business. Good luck with

able to email me the calculator? I'm

the Ag-Cats in the Philippines! —

helping a client in Australia with this

Graham agairupdate.com | A 7

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS agairupdate.com/calendar

February 7-8,2022 Operation S.A.F.E. Analyst Training Opportunities

February 22-24, 2022 Tri State Aerial Applicator Convention

Garwood, TX Dr. Gardisser Phone: (501) 676-1762 dgardisser@wrkofar.com

Alerus Center & Canada Inn Grand Forks, ND Terry Stieren 612-751-1187 tambroz@aol.com Andrea Goebel 605-690-3477 sdaviation@gmail.com Cindy Beck 701-899-3232 cindy@tri-stateaviation.com www.tristateaerialconvention. com

February 7-9, 2022 SEAF Convention

Francis Marion Hotel Charleston, SC Linda Minton 772-465-0714 www.flagaviation.org February 10,2022 Lake Village, AR Operation S.A.F.E. Analyst Training Opportunities

Garwood, TX Dr. Gardisser Phone: (501) 676-1762 dgardisser@wrkofar.com February 13-15 2022 NC AAA Convention

Hilton Garden Inn Outer Banks/Kitty Hawk Kitty Hawk, NC Leslie Craft 252-426-9676 ncagaviation@gmail.com February 17-19, 2022 Canada AAA Conference and trade show

Montréal, QC Canada Phone: +1 780-413-0078 Fax: +1 780-413-0076 info@ canadianaerialapplicators.com canadianaerialapplicators. com/conference February 18-19, 2022 NAAA Spring Board Meeting

Hotel Bonaventure Montreal, QC Canada Lindsay Barber 202-546-5722 information@agaviation.org

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February 28-March 2, 2022 NATA Convention

Younes Center Kearney, NE Taylor Moore 402-761-2216 taylor@youraam.com gonata.net March 22-24, 2022 AR (multiple locations) Operation S.A.F.E. Analyst Training Opportunities

Garwood, TX Dr. Gardisser Phone: (501) 676-1762 dgardisser@wrkofar.com March 28-29, 2022 Gould, AR Operation S.A.F.E. Analyst Training Opportunities

Garwood, TX Dr. Gardisser Phone: (501) 676-1762 dgardisser@wrkofar.com April 11-15, 2022 SD (multiple locations) Operation S.A.F.E. Analyst Training Opportunities

Garwood, TX Dr. Gardisser Phone: (501) 676-1762 dgardisser@wrkofar.com

May 11-12, 2022 Park Rapids, MN Operation S.A.F.E. Analyst Training Opportunities

Garwood, TX Dr. Gardisser Phone: (501) 676-1762 dgardisser@wrkofar.com May 13-14, 2022 Sterling, CO Operation S.A.F.E. Analyst Training Opportunities

Garwood, TX Dr. Gardisser Phone: (501) 676-1762 dgardisser@wrkofar.com May 27, 2022 International Crop Duster’s Day August 19, 2022 Brazilian Ag Aviation Day October 20-23, 2022 VIII Expo Congreso Aviación Agrícola 2022 Hotel Fiesta Americana

Puerto Vallarta, México adriana.garduno@ aviacionagricola.com.mx 55-55712072 ext 107 WhatsApp 5539777805 October 2022 CaAAA Annual Convention

TBA Terry Gage 916-645-9747 terry.gage@caaa.net caaa.net October 2022 KsAAA Annual Convention

TBA Rhonda McCurry 316-650-6857 kaaa@ksagaviation.org ksagaviation.org

November 2022 Mid-States Ag Aviation Convention

TBA Garrett Lindell 309-582-5445 garrett@lindellaerialag.com November 2022 CoAAA Convention and Trade Show

TBA Jessica Freeman 970-217-5239 jessica@coagav.org www.coagav.org December 5-8, 2022 NAAA’s Ag Aviation Expo

Knoxville Convention Center Knoxville, TN Lindsay Barber Tel: 202-546-5722 Fax: 202-546-5726 information@agaviation.org January 2023 MoAAA Convention

TBD Mike Hall 573-649-2587 aerialcropservices@ sbcglobal.net January 2023 TxAAA Convention

TBA Kim Cash 512-476-2644 kimcash@thetexascapitol.com January 2023 LaAAA Convention

TBA Ed Krielow 337-230-9952 edward@ekrielowcpa.com www.laaaonline.org

INTERNATIONAL

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AN INSIDE VIEW:

The Department of Defense Aerial Spraying Course A 910th Airlift Wing aerial spray modified C-130H Hercules sprays water from its training modular aerial spray system during an aerial spray demonstration, Jan. 12, 2022, at the Northeast Florida Regional Airport.

A few hours after stepping off the airplane, two public affairs representatives from the 910th Airlift Wing walk into a brewery on the coast of St. Augustine. It’s a travel day, so they want to check out the U.S.’s oldest city before their work starts tomorrow. After checking their IDs, from Ohio and Pennsylvania, the bartender asks, “What brings you to Florida?”

Over the next four days, Jan. 10 to 13, the PA specialists will be documenting the Department of Defense Category 11 Pesticide Applicator Training and Certification Course conducted by entomologists assigned to the 910th AW. Every three years the annual Cat. 11 course, commonly taught in Ohio, is taught in Florida in conjunction with the FMCA’s annual fly-in.

“Business,” the first PA specialist replies, “We’re with the Air Force documenting a Department of Defense aerial spray certification course that’s running in tandem with the Florida Mosquito Control Association’s fly-in, just outside of town.”

After their chat with the locals and a craft beer, the specialists call it a night. Work starts tomorrow at the Anastasia Mosquito Control District’s headquarters.

His response catches the attention of a patron who asks, “Really? Near St. Augustine? I didn’t think we had that many mosquitoes around here.”

When the 910th AW performs a pesticide mission, the public might hear the low rumble of a C-130H Hercules aircraft flying nearby around dusk, but that’s about it. The product used to eliminate mosquitos is atomized and dispersed in microscopic droplets. Sometime later, the bugs that would be biting and potentially spreading diseases are dead.

“Yes ma’am,” the second specialist answers. “You wouldn’t believe the amount of work behind the scenes of mosquito control…” A 10 | agairupdate.com

Day 1 (DoD Cat. 11)

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“If you do it right, it’s like magic.” Lt. Col. Mark Breidenbaugh, one of the medical entomologists teaching the course, is aware of the public’s view as he begins his presentation at the course. “If you do it right, it’s like magic,” says Breidenbaugh. “You don’t see it happening and you don’t smell anything. That’s the concept.” Filling the seats across from Breidenbaugh are a couple of new students and a few familiar faces back for their threeyear recertification. The students have come from across the DoD’s total force to be certified as ground supervisors of aerial spray operations, monitors of pest control contracts using aerial spray and approvers of DoD aerial spray projects. They spend the next few hours listening and taking notes to lectures on aerial spray-specific entomology, understanding the patterns of target insects; chemistry, the mix-ratio and proper use of product; meteorology, the study of weather and its effect on dispersal patterns, aerial application and dispersal mathematics; and the public affairs aspect of aerial spray before the first day finally ends. Tomorrow, they’ll finish up the DoD-specific portion of the course by covering topography, swath mapping—or spray area calculating—and aerial application request procedures, before opening the conference doors and hearing how the civilian side sprays.

Day 2 (FMCA fly-in) Basically, the only time the DoD aerial spray program mixes with public or private aerial spray is when the DoD contracts them for small area application on or near federal property or when it’s an emergency situation where an afflicted state has exhausted all of its resources and requests the 910th AW’s aerial spray mission for large-area assistance. So when the doors open, the first FMCA attendees to arrive make a beeline for the 910AW’s lecturers and students. In the hustle and bustle of the meet and greet, Christopher Lesser, the president of the FMCA, is pulled outside by the PA specialists for an interview and asked what the Air Force attending this course brings to the fly-in.

Tech. Sgt. Dustin Moneypenny, a spray technician assigned to the 910th Spray Maintenance Flight, checks how far the 910th Airlift Wing’s training modular Aerial Spray System has filled with water, Jan. 12, 2022, at the Northeast Florida Regional Airport.

“We love it!” Lesser replies. “It brings a great deal of excitement to all of us, simply because it’s a whole new type of spraying that you guys bring to the community. We train you a little bit, you guys train us a little bit. And it’s beneficial for all of us.” The long-standing partnership with the FMCA brings new technology testing data, new experiment data and experienced aerial spray personnel to the DoD students. In exchange, the 910th AW entomologists lead different lectures on the military’s role in aerial spray operations, provide DoD study briefings and give statistics on the 910th AW’s Modular Aerial Spray System and C-130H Hercules aerial spray capabilities. ➤ agairupdate.com | A 11

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Senior Airman Bryce Cooper and Staff Sgt. Kodi Wells, both spray technicians assigned to the 910th Spray Maintenance Flight, sit in a Beaufort County South Carolina Mosquito Control aircraft, Jan. 12, 2022, at the Northeast Florida Regional Airport.

The DoD’s aerial spray program is primarily a wartime capability; the ultimate goal is to protect U.S. troops from arthropod-borne diseases while abiding by judicious use of product—just enough to get the job done with minimal impact to the environment. The FMCA’s mission is to promote effective and environmentally safe control of disease-transmitting mosquitoes and other pest insects. Or as Lesser puts it, “We all have the exact same mission. You guys are doing it on a little bit different level than we are. We’re a little more local, a little more focused, but you guys are a little larger, bigger scale. But we’re all doing the same type of work. And at the end of the day, it’s all about benefiting the public, the public health.” After the meet and greet dies down, lunch is served in the AMCD hangar where the remainder of the fly-in and Cat. 11 lectures will take place. The few exceptions to this location will be the day three C-130 aerial spray demo and the Cat.11 final exam on day four.

Capt. Deanna Scheff, medical entomologist assigned to the 910th Airlift Wing, teaches aerial application and dispersant mathematics, Jan. 10, 2022, during the Department of Defense Category 11 Pesticide Applicator Training and Certification Course at Anastasia Mosquito Control

The spray demo will take place at the Northeast Florida Regional Airport. A 12 | agairupdate.com

District's headquarters, Florida.

INTERNATIONAL

“It brings a great deal of excitement to all of us, simply because it’s a whole new type of spraying that you guys bring to the community. We train you a little bit, you guys train us a little bit. And it’s beneficial for all of us.” Christopher Lesser, President of the FMCA

A 910th Airlift Wing aerial spray modified C-130H Hercules sprays water from its training modular aerial spray system during an aerial spray demonstration, Jan. 12, 2022, at the Northeast Florida Regional Airport.

Day 3 (C-130 Spray Demo) The C-130 is one of the largest aircraft used for aerial spray. Its flight crew totals nine members on a spray mission: a pilot, copilot, flight engineer, navigator, onboard entomologist, two spray system operators and two loadmasters. Most civilian aerial spraying is done with helicopters, one or two-seat planes or drones capable of aerial application. The size difference of the operations are very apparent when comparing the aircraft. A soft wind passes under caution tape and through the corralled crowd. Eyes, phones and cameras aim skyward as a soft rumble grows in the distance. Within seconds of its audible calling, a large shadow shoots through the sunny state’s sky, leaving only a streak of water, claimed by no cloud, in its wake. During the demonstration, the crew passes once without spraying, twice while spraying and once more dry before taking the aircraft in for a landing and taxiing to a stop a hundred or so yards away from the pen. The crowd watches as the propellers spin to a halt and the tail opens, readying for the static display. The 910th AW maintains a MASS that only ever handles water for use in training and demonstrations like this one. ➤

Lt. Col. Mark Breidenbaugh and Lt. Col. Jennifer Remmers, both medical entomologists assigned to the 910th Airlift Wing, inspect droplet sample cards after a 910th AW C-130H Hercules aerial spray demonstration, Jan. 12, 2022, at the Northeast Florida Regional Airport.

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Capt. Deanna Scheff and Lt. Col. Mark Breidenbaugh, both medical entomologists assigned to the 910th Airlift Wing, lay out droplet sample cards before a 910th AW C-130H Hercules aerial spray demonstration, Jan. 12, 2022, at the Northeast Florida Regional Airport. The droplet samples were collected to be analyzed during the combined Department of Defense Category 11 Pesticide Applicator Training and Certification Course and Florida Mosquito Control Association fly-in.

Their capability is the DoD’s only large area fixed-wing aerial spray asset to control disease-carrying insects, pest insects and undesirable vegetation and to disperse oil spills in large bodies of water.

So the course’s third day fosters much more mechanical and operational discussions as most of the 910th AW aircrew and spray system maintainers had not attended any of the Cat. 11 courses or prior FMCA fly-ins.

In the civilian sector, the pilot is oftentimes the navigator, spray operator and sometimes even the aircraft mechanic as well. The DoD has a much more solid delineation between roles and subject matter experts.

“I thought it was super cool getting to see and hear about what other mosquito control they have out here,” said Senior Airman Bryce Cooper, a relatively new spray technician assigned to the 910th Spray Maintenance Flight. “Before today, I’d never seen another mosquito control aircraft.”

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Tech. Sgt. Dustin Moneypenny and Staff Sgt. Kodi Wells, both spray technicians assigned to the 910th Spray Maintenance Flight, ready the 910th Airlift Wing's modular aerial spray system, Jan. 12, 2022, for a C-130H Hercules aerial spray demo at the Northeast Florida Regional Airport.

Day 4 (Final Exam) It’s the last day of both the DoD aerial spray course and FMCA fly-in. The Cat. 11 students will be taking their final exam after the fly-in wraps up, and it’d probably be best if the PA specialists didn’t aim a camera at them while they’re trying to concentrate. So about an hour away in Jacksonville, the PA specialists wait in line to board their plane, where they share one last mission irrelevant conversation. “Man, after being here I don’t want to go back home,” remarks the first specialist, as he shuffles around in his bag for his ticket. “I need to find a way to convince my wife to move away from Pennsylvania.” “I don’t know, Saint Augustine is nice and all, but I can’t handle Florida’s summer heat,” counters the second one, currently glued to his phone trying to think of a unique way to give the public an inside view of the last few days. “Ohio stays moderately temperate, and I wouldn’t want to leave the 910th.”

Two Sailors attending the Department of Defense Category 11 Pesticide Applicator Training and Certification Course do swath mapping and spray area calculations, Jan. 11, 2022, at Anastasia Mosquito Control District’s headquarters, Florida.

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INTERNATIONAL

502XP Goes to Ecuador

AT-502A-3321 on final approach to José Joaquín De Olmedo International Airport, Guayaquil, Ecuador.

502XP Arrives For Work At Ecuador Banana Producer The first Air Tractor 502XP to operate in Ecuador was delivered to its new owner, Agrolineas del Pacifico S.A. (APACSA) located at Machala, in El Oro province. The airplane arrived January 6, 2022 at José Joaquín De Olmedo International Airport in Guayaquil after a 2,800mile ferry flight from Air Tractor. The sale was developed by Juan Phillips, a representative of Air Tractor dealer AgSur Aviones. Oro Banana S.A. specializes in the commercialization of bananas, and Agrolineas del Pacifico S.A. is a subsidiary of Oro Banana S.A. The family-owned and operated business was founded in 1970. OBSA is the parent company of a vertically integrated corporate structure whose subsidiaries handle the production, packaging, and transportation of the bananas from the farm to the port. The group consists of farms and associated producers cultivating roughly 5,000 hectares of bananas in the Ecuador El Oro, Guayas, and Los Rios regions. Currently, OBSA ships approximately 120,000 boxes of bananas per week. A 16 | agairupdate.com

APACSA is a subsidiary of OBSA, and its primary business activity is the aerial application of agricultural pesticides on the group’s plantations. With a dedicated fleet of aircraft and experienced pilots, APACSA is tasked with the timely application of pesticides to control diseases and pests that reduce the productive yield of the plantations. The primary season when APACSA actively sprays is October through March. High temperatures and frequent rain increases the incidence and prevalence of Black Sigatoka fungus. This leaf spot disease causes significant reductions in leaf area, and can inflict crop losses of 50 percent or more, as well as causing premature ripening, which is a severe defect in exported fruit. During this 6-month timespan, APACSA typically sprays seven to ten thousand hectares per week. At the suggestion of Juan Phillips, President of Oro Banana S.A. Jorge Alex Serrano, OBSA Finance Manager Jose Moran, and APACSA General Manager Edgar Eduardo Cordova Serrano visited the Air Tractor factory in Olney, Texas on August 12, 2021. Along with Juan Phillips, they toured the

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L-R Jose Miles, Marcos Gimenez, Fabian Quintana, Leonidas GomezCuello, Cap. Luis Cordero, Juan Phillips (AgSur Aviones) ferry pilot Matias Gurmandi (masked), and Cap. Wilson Gutierrez.

manufacturing facilities. At the Plant 1 fuselage welding station they saw their airplane, serial no. AT-502A-3321, in the early stages of assembly. They met with Air Tractor President Jim Hirsch, the Air Tractor finance team and Chief Test Pilot Mike Rhodes. Jorge Alex was impressed with the facilities and personnel. “Air Tractor is quite obviously a wellestablished and capable company, with extensive experience in its products,” he observed. He noted that APACSA operates two 20-year old PZL 106 Kruk aircraft and a Thrush 510P. “Our purchase of the 502XP enables us to retire one of the Kruk airplanes while increasing our aerial application capabilities. The 502XP power, price, efficiency and safety provides the best value for us. The plan is to purchase a second 502XP,” he added.

L-R, Jose Moran, OBSA Finance Manager; Jorge Alex Serrano Aguilar, OBSA President; and Edgar Eduardo Cordova Serrano, General Manager beside

Since its debut in 2016, Hirsch reports that 121 502XP airplanes have been built. For many operators, the 502XP provides an extra margin of power to boost productivity when high density altitude challenges aircraft performance. All of the 502XP’s attributes contribute to faster ferry times, more acres covered in less time, and reduced pilot fatigue on long, hot days. The 502XP is powered by a Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A140AG turbine engine. The engine is paired with a 4-blade Hartzell propeller and produces 867 shaft horsepower, an increase of 117 SHP over the PT6A-34AG. “Pilots can take off with a full load all day, every day.” Air Tractor President Jim Hirsch is also looking forward to the future relationship. “We are thrilled to have the first 502XP

their new 502XP in the early stages of fuselage welding.

in Ecuador. All of us at Air Tractor and at AgSur Aviones will provide the product support to help APACSA with its long-term plans for growth and increased productivity. The AT-502XP is an excellent fit for the growing conditions in Ecuador and the demands of their operation,” he said. OBSA is a supplier to well known multinational distributors such as Del Monte and Chiquita. The company has a global reach spanning five continents through direct and indirect exports. All plantations under the OBSA umbrella currently have, or are in the process of obtaining the international Global GAP certification, which is widely recognized as a standard for demonstrating food safety and sustainable agriculture. agairupdate.com | A 17

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Nat Nagy Appointed New CEO of Aerial Application Association of Australia Nat Nagy was appointed in December after long-time CEO Phil Hurst retired in October last year.

Nat Nagy

Nat Nagy has held executive positions at the ATSB and Airservices Australia, is an adjunct professor at RMIT University School of Engineering and a RAAF reserve Specialist Capability Officer. AAAA president Steve Holding said that the search for the best candidate had been thorough and that he looked forward to working with Nagy to build on the legacy left by Hurst. “There is still plenty of work left to do and significant emerging opportunities across the industry, including in agriculture and forestry, firefighting, and in continuing to improve our own performance and stewardship from an already high base,” Holding said. “AAAA is known as a no-nonsense peak body that always looks for a positive outcome – and Nat has the experience to continue to deliver against our core values and strategic plan while reinforcing the great culture of the aerial application industry. “All AAAA members look forward to welcoming Nat to the industry and ensuring the coming decades are as successful as those under Phil’s stewardship.” Nagy said that he saw his role as CEO as an opportunity to contribute to aviation at another level.

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“There is still plenty of work left to do and significant emerging opportunities across the industry, including in agriculture and forestry, firefighting, and in continuing to improve our own performance and stewardship from an already high base.” “Aerial application is a critical industry for Australia. It’s role in protecting agricultural crops, forestry and pastures and fighting bushfires from the air can’t be undersold.” “AAAA’s reputation amongst all in the aviation industry is as a first-class contributor, a strong fighter for their causes and a positive influence across a wide range of safety, regulatory, and environmental issues. I am very enthusiastic about heading up such a well-regarded and outcome-focused organization.”

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CRAYMER’S COUNSEL

Robert Craymer - robertc@covingtonaircraft.com

Wash Your Engine Please wash your hands. Our parents made this request when we were young children. We are also hearing and seeing signs about washing our hands in our current situation—something so simple but can have a profound effect. Washing can work wonders. When we talk about washing your engine, it has that same positive result. A clean engine is a happy engine. Pratt & Whitney Canada gives us insight into the maintenance manual on types of engine washes, guidelines for washing, and why they are essential. The item the maintenance manual does not explicitly tell us is when to wash. My question for you is, when do you wash your PT6 engine? Time to discuss the types of engine washes that you should be doing and my thoughts on how often you might do each type. If you have sat through an engine discussion, washing almost always comes up as a topic of conversation. The maintenance manual defines three internal types of washes: Desalinization, Power Recovery and Turbine. I also remind folks not to neglect the external engine wash. Not only does it give you a chance to look your engine over, but it also provides an opportunity to make sure you have cables and components lubricated. Not cleaning these components and caring for their proper lubrication can lead to premature wear and failure. You want to be looking for early signs of corrosion as well. The earlier you catch corrosion, the better. All internal engine washes are performed while motoring the engine. This provides two additional things to watch; first, make sure not to overheat your starter/generator, allow for a proper cool down in between cycles of motoring. The second concern is the potential to siphon the oil from the oil tank and flood the accessory gearbox. This is much more prominent in large PT6 engines. An indicator that shows up is oil coming out of the inlet case. When washing a large PT6 engine, we try and do as few motoring runs as possible. A 20 | agairupdate.com

Begin your internal washes by engaging your starter. When the Ng is between 10% to 25%, water or cleaning fluid is injected into the engine at 2 to 3 gal/minute. Make sure and read your maintenance manual to see the complete washing instructions. All internal engine washes are performed while the engine is turning. Let’s define the washes now to make the best choice as to what type of wash you need. The first internal wash is the desalinization wash. This wash is performed to remove salts, deposits and light dirt. This wash is performed with drinking quality water, provided minimum standards are met. I suggest to people who live in areas with a high mineral content in the water to use demineralized water. Desalinization wash can be a daily or weekly wash dependent upon the atmosphere you fly in. We talk about salt air, pollution, dust, and sand, but what about products being delivered with ag aircraft that are corrosive? Can these materials make it through the air filtration? My suggestion is to check the cleanliness of your compressor during your 100-hour inspection. This will let you know if you need to increase the frequency of your desalinization (plain water) washes. If you are doing a lot of fertilizer, make sure and run some water through your engine. We have seen some of the chemicals cause significant corrosion quickly on and in the engine when not taken care of. ➤

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The second internal wash is the performance recovery wash. Pratt & Whitney Canada recommends this level of washing if there is a noticeable difference in engine performance. I would add that if you are doing regular desalinization washes and the compressor is still showing signs of dirt/salt/chemicals; then you should add a performance recovery wash to your regular schedule. This wash is like the desalination wash with the addition of a cleaning solution. Important note: ONLY use approved chemicals in the cleaning solution. There are several options available, and they are listed in the engine maintenance manual along with the proper mix ratios. The final internal wash is the compressor turbine desalinization wash. This wash sprays clean water directly on the compressor turbine blades. A tool is required to perform the compressor turbine desalinization wash. A water

rinse of the turbine is recommended when doing a performance recovery wash as the final step. This wash is used to remove residue from the CT blades and limit the opportunity for sulphidation to attack blade coating and or parent material. If you notice dirt or other things “sticking” to your compressor turbine (CT) blades, you need to perform this wash. The blades are being inspected at each nozzle interval via borescope, so you will be keeping an eye on how they are doing. If anyone has had to replace CT blades, you know just how valuable this small amount of preventative maintenance can be. I encourage everyone to do washes based upon what you are seeing in and on your engine. Make sure you reference the manual for all the proper steps. Make sure all the drains are open and draining. Ensure to disconnect the air system going

to the fuel control from the engine. Cleanliness can make a world of difference not only to the performance of your engine but also provide an opportunity to save you money as a preventative step. Everyone wash your hands, wash your engine, stay safe, and let’s have a great season! Please reach out to me at robertc@ covingtonaircraft.com if you have any questions, and I’ll be glad to assist.

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Paraclete Aviation Life Support Announces International Expansions and North American Agreement in Wireless Communications for Helmets Paraclete Aviation Life Support further strengthens its global presence in the rotor and fixed-wing helmet market, extending the company’s international footprint with the recent expansions into South Korea, Brazil and Australia, as well as its continued relationships in Europe, South America and Asia. Paraclete is emerging as a global provider of aviation helmets building strategic partnerships in 28 countries throughout the world in commercial and military markets throughout 49 of the U.S. states since its launch in 2014. Paraclete has secured certifications for its entire product line of Type 1 and 2 helmet models: the Aegis [ee-jis] D Type 1, the Aspida-D [a-speed-a], and most recently, the Aspida Carbon-D, as set forth by the U.S. Department of Interior [DOI] /U.S. Forestry Services [USFS] civilian helmet aviation standard. Paraclete is the only manufacturer to offer DOI-certified helmets in every size, S-XXL. Paraclete is committed to the safety and protection through our continuous innovations through evidence-based research science and technology. Paraclete’s increasing presence into new markets with new distributors and partners [end users], continues to broaden its services into diverse markets with respect to air ambulance/HEMS, law enforcement, and federal agencies, as well as expanding its distributor relationships throughout the world. The company also announces its entryway to the global aviation communications market with the recent North American agreement with the wireless communications solutions manufacturer, GlobalSys, based in France. GlobalSys is a wireless voice communication solution featuring audio clarity, noise reduction, sound quality, with the mobility and adaptability of reconfiguration options for civilian and military aviation. “As a primary driver in most businesses today, innovation must be qualified to confirm its overall value and efficiency,” said Paraclete CEO and Founder Scott Hedges. “While we continue to enhance the value of our helmet product line, we look for those relationships that support our core tenets - comfort, innovation and safety. We found that value with GlobalSys and the expanding wireless communications technology delivering an asset that crews need to ensure efficient operations.” A 24 | agairupdate.com

GlobalSys CEO Dominique Retali, said, “We design our wireless solutions with adaptability and flexibility in mind. Our systems have the highest sound quality, which is of great importance for all operators. The advanced technology with our mobile unit Airlink 3085 provides the option to reconfigure to adapt to multiple aircraft and mission types in less than five minutes. The onboard network blocks out noise to ensure clear communications and without the wires obstructing movement in the aircraft, whether in the pilot’s seat or conducting a rescue mission 50 feet below the aircraft.” “Mission work is all about teamwork, and effective communication is essential,” said Anthony Economos, Paraclete’s Vice President. “GlobalSys allows crews to replace the traditional hard-wired helicopter intercom with a wireless communications onboard network that provides a lifesaving service that links our helmets out to 300 meters simultaneously. Our entire mission is designing aviation helmets based on our three pillars without sacrificing safety and comfort. We also know that ‘comfort’ can be subjective, but we’ve also advanced our designs with innovative technology, which is experiential the first time a pilot dons one of our helmets.” Paraclete is an ISO 9001:2015 certified manufacturer providing design, development, and manufacture of Aviation Life Support Equipment [ALSE], as well as education and training services. For more information about Paraclete products and training, contact www.paracleteaviationlifesupport.com | 931.274.7947 | sales@paracletelifesupport.com | 1792 Alpine Dr. Clarksville, TN 37040.

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Engage the power For over 30 years, TAE Aerospace has been supporting Ag operators worldwide with first-class maintenance, repair and overhaul services. Ag operators have come to rely on TAE Aerospace to maximize the performance of their TPE331 engines and minimize the impact on aircraft availability during routine and unplanned maintenance. With Honeywell Authorized Service Centers across the globe, we are one of the world’s largest TPE331 engine service providers covering engines, fuel controls and engine component repairs. We deliver customer value by offering a high-quality service at a price that will reduce your maintenance cost. Our customers also benefit from our wide-ranging capabilities, including the repair and overhaul of the PT6A and GE engine and components.

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www.taeaerospace.com agairupdate.com | A 25

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Decisions, Decisions, Decisions By Ted Delanghe

Another ‘trick of the trade’ when faced with critical decision-making is to imagine six months in the future. What would people remember of the day when you decided to cease flying operations instead of continuing in marginal conditions with a resultant accident, incident, or non-effective application.

You’ve just returned from finishing a load on what you thought was your last flight of the morning. The temperature is rising, the winds are coming up, and you’ve already treated 3,000 acres. You reach the loading area and are just about to shut down when the mixer/loader hands you a last-minute worksheet. It’s got “high priority” stamped all over as it’s a canola crop being decimated by Bertha armyworms.

One last decision: racetrack or back-to-back? If the powerline weren’t there, racetrack would be best, but the powerline is there. You decide that back-to-back would be the better option and give the field one last survey while setting up the first swath. Beyond the power line at the north end is a paved road, so you’ll have to keep an eye out for traffic. Another decision to make; it shouldn’t be a problem.

You take a quick look at the worksheet. Just one load with a short ferry. Decision time! While both winds and temps are coming up, they are still within limits, so you give the signal to load.

That’s when you note you will be flying into the sun towards the powerline. Is glare going to be a factor? One quick test run, and you decide it won’t be a problem. Decision: it’s a go! You run your first pass and, in due time, complete the application safely and effectively.

You tap the GPS coordinates into your nav program and look at the farmer’s map attached to the worksheet—big red barn in the northeast corner, stone piles in the south end. No obstacles indicated, so there shouldn’t be any issues. Load is completed, and off you go, climbing to 500 feet AGL enroute. You notice in the climb it’s getting bumpy, starting at 300 feet. Probably wind shear. A couple of miles to go, and you see the big red barn and the stone miles. Good to go! But wait! At the north end, you see the large towers of a 230 kV power line running through the field. Big surprise as it wasn’t on the farmer’s map! A decision has to be made to go over or under. If over, you’ll have to contend with wind shear on pullup to clear the towers, as well as having to run quite a few trim runs parallel to and on both sides of the line. If under, the line is sagging a bit with the increased temperature and bears a close look to ensure it is safe to do so. Decision time again! After a close inspection, you decide the best option is to go under. One last review of the farmer’s map, and you notice a susceptible field marked to the east. With the westerly flow that makes it downwind. Is it far enough away to ensure no drift issues? Winds are still within limits, but you decide to leave a sizeable buffer zone just to make sure.

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That scenario is typical of day-to-day ag operations, where sometimes it seems as if your helmet is on fire with decision after decision to make. Considering the serious consequences of making a bad decision – something which we’ve all done and hopefully have gotten away with – a review of the many factors that can contribute to good decision making is always a fruitful topic. I have been very fortunate in my early career as an ag pilot to have met several individuals who were not only highly experienced but were willing to share that knowledge with the greenhorn that I was. A seasoned Kiwi ag pilot told me that good decision-making starts the moment you wake up and begin preparing for the day’s flights. Your attitude should be shifted into “Safety First” mode, which should form the cornerstone of all the decisions you will have to make that day. When deciding whether a trip is a go or nogo, you need to answer two questions: will it be safe, and will it be effective. If the answer to both is not an immediate “Yes!” instead of a lot of humming and hawing, the trip should be left until you get that resounding “Yes!” answer. ➤

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When things are going smoothly, the workload light, and there isn’t a pressing need to complete a trip, it’s easy to make good decisions, one of which is saying “No, this trip can wait!” when conditions so dictate. But once you get into a scenario where distressed farmers are lined up at the office because a sudden infestation of pests is destroying their crop, the weather limits are marginal, and you’ve already flown 23 trips (or was that 24 or 25) and fatigue is beginning to creep in, it’s a lot harder to make the correct decision to say “No.” This is especially true when you are new to the business and feel the onus is on you to get the job done, even if it means pressing the many factors that go into making treatments safe and effective. An interesting approach I’ve used to assist in the correct decision-making process started when my friend and I were working together off the same strip. We both carried a box of Cigarillos, even though neither of us was a smoker. Whenever it looked like conditions were getting to where a “Go/No Go” decision had to be made, one or the other would A 28 | agairupdate.com

say over the radios, “time for a smoke.” We would both shut down and get together to discuss things rather than continue until it was really obvious operations needed to cease. In most cases, just taking that little break was enough to put things in the right perspective and make the decision to stop flying until conditions improved. Whether it’s a smoke break, coffee break, or water break, make sure taking a break is SOP for your operation. Another ‘trick of the trade’ when faced with critical decisionmaking is to imagine six months in the future. What would people remember of the day when you decided to cease flying operations instead of continuing in marginal conditions with a resultant accident, incident, or non-effective application. As with many things, when you’re right, no one remembers, but when you’re wrong, no one forgets. NOTE: FAA’s “Aeronautical Decision Making” and Transport Canada’s “Human Factors for Aviation – Basic Handbook” are both excellent resources for learning more about the decision-making process specific to aviation.

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INSIGHTS

National Agricultural Aviation Association

NAAA Endorses and Encourages Ag Aircraft GPS Data Collection Effort Protecting Manned Ag Aircraft from Drones Mississippi State University’s (MSU) Raspet Flight Research Laboratory (RFRL) is continuing its research study on safe operational distances between low-altitude, manned aircraft and drones. MSU is now beginning its second stage of GPS flight log data collection from manned agricultural aircraft. Many AgAir Update readers may have donated GPS flight log data during the first stage of data collection from 2017 to 2020. This second stage of GPS flight log data collection is critical to continue MSU Raspet’s ongoing research. Methods for GPS flight log data deliveries remain the same as the first stage – please see details below for all delivery options to MSU. This effort is supported and encouraged by the NAAA as MSU’s objective is to understand, model and predict manned ag aircraft in order to educate drone operators and promote safe, responsible drone flight in ag environments. NAAA has already seen the benefits of having this information available when dealing with government officials by being able to emphasize the low-altitude airspace that NAAA members operate in.

More GPS flight log data is needed for the next research steps to facilitate the safe integration of unmanned aircraft (UA) into the airspace in which manned ag aircraft operations occupy. The data collected could have other benefits to ag aviation safety and performance, such as average turn radius, decent and ascent angles, etc. As with the first stage of data collection, NAAA and MSU agreed that all of the information collected is confidential, as confirmed by the following language from MSU Raspet:

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*IMPORTANT* - Just as with our previous GPS flight log data collection effort, please know that MSU remains fully committed to protecting the privacy of NAAA’s members who donate their flight logs. The personal information of NAAA members who choose to donate their data will NOT under any circumstances be shared outside MSU. Furthermore, the GPS flight logs themselves will be stripped of all personally identifying information before any research is conducted using the data. Our research would never be possible without these data donations from NAAA membership. We tremendously value and appreciate your NAAA members who trust us with their data. At the end of the day, the privacy and security of these members is our upmost priority. Please submit your 2021 GPS flight data now. New with this round of data collection is the need to capture aircraft make and model info (not the N number or other personally identifying information) and GPS system make and model information, in addition to the GPS flight logs. B 2 | agairupdate.com

The steps to do so are accessible using the link and login credentials below: 1. Email Madison Dixon, RFRL Research Director, at mdixon@raspet.msstate.edu. 2. Upload to the NAAA Ag Data Repository at www.hpc. msstate.edu/raspet-naaa/ (1 GB file limit per upload). Email Madison Dixon at mdixon@raspet.msstate.edu to receive your login Username and Password. 3. Mail a USB flash drive or another external hard drive device to the address below. (The flash drive will be immediately mailed back to the sender once data is received): Attn: Madison Dixon MSU Raspet Flight Research Lab - Building 2 114 Airport Road Starkville, MS 39759

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REGINA’S PERSPECTIVE

Regina Farmer regina.farmer@chem-man.com

The Busy Season is Upon Us! We didn’t get a chance to make it to all the conventions we would have liked to. However, it’s been a whirlwind going to the ones we attended. I love seeing all our friends and customers. After two years of hibernation, it feels good to talk to people in person.

We didn’t get a chance to make it to all the conventions we would have liked to. However, it’s been a whirlwind going to the ones we attended. I love seeing all our friends and customers. After two years of hibernation, it feels good to talk to people in person. I always enjoy visiting with the PAASS presenters as well. Like the traveling vendors, they get to know and feel the region they are attending. Some conventions are unique in their own way. The Louisiana convention enjoys its annual fundraiser by having a crawfish race. Many conventions have silent and live auctions. Some have raffles, and some have barrel races! I think it’s so cool to keep it lively and active. I know there’s a lot of hard work putting these conventions on, and I always appreciate it. If we can’t go, we always do our best to support and donate to them either way. This year, one special delight is one of our awesome customers Jim Perrin, the NAAA president, and his beautiful wife, Julie. It was great to see them multiple times at the many different conventions. I got a kick out of telling him that each NAAA president was obliged to kick off the song “Sweet Caroline” at a Louisiana kickoff party (I think I put him in shock) while I played the piano. However, vendor Doug Davis helped out, and all was well. (This was a tradition started by former NAAA president Perry Hofer who did a great job). I was happy to be accompanied by my office manager, Amy, who really helped out. My husband Jerry was having back issues and wasn’t able to attend.

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Some of our customers had very good seasons this past year, and others did not. There have been droughts or floods in some areas but amazing opportunities in others. I’ve heard there was a pilot shortage, and one of my customers hired some pilots from Africa. I talked to them, and they were so happy to be in America. I’m seeing many of my friends retire and letting younger people buy them out. It’s exciting to watch the industry become more open to new technologies and their workflows become more efficient. I think the younger generation will demand higher-tech operations. I was able to have classes at multiple conventions, and it’s always amazing how different areas have different workflows. You have to be adaptable and listen to each customer and hopefully make everyone happy if possible. This year, one of the big highlights is the interface with wireless GPS systems. The fact that you can hit a button and wirelessly transfer the shapefiles to the GPS is amazing! No more thumb drives. I get so excited to help bring new technology to the industry! Let’s all hope and pray that we have a safe and prosperous season! Y’all fly safe!

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LOW & SLOW

Mabry I. Anderson An Insider’s History of Agricultural Aviation

The Southern and Midwestern Spread

— Chapter four continued…

An Ag-Cat goes through its paces. Intensive research by Grumman Aircraft Corporation led to the development of the Ag-Cat.

Even more promising, however, was the fact that commercial chemical firms had at last come up with some highly effective materials, notably DDT, BHC, and 2,4-D for combating insects, disease, and weeds. These materials had been effectively used by the military in every comer of the world, applied for the most part with jerry-built spraying units attached to a number of different military aircraft.

Almost perfectly flat, it rises to just a few feet above sea level and is scattered with coral rock. Alligators and diamondback rattlers inhabit the marsh land that makes up a part of this region.

Exciting times were ahead. The very air buzzed with promise. Swaggering young military pilots began buying up surplus aircraft, especially the Boeing Kaydet (Stearman PT17 and PT-13), and the modem era of agricultural aviation was about to be born.

But despite its drab appearance, this land was, and is one of the prime vegetable growing regions of the world. The 12-month growing season spawns much of the country’s “out-ofseason” produce, particularly tomatoes and snap beans. Consequently, agricultural flying has figured prominently in this region, particularly around the little town of Homestead, which lies just east of the huge Everglades National Park.

The land south of Coral Gables and southwest of Miami on the east Florida coast is deceptive. At first glance, it appears to be nothing more than a monotonous stretch of uncolorful sand, dotted with an occasional palm and lots of palmetto.

Delta Air Service “discovered” Homestead in the 1920s and, for many years, sent its fleet into the area. The flying season began in late October and extended through the winter months and into June. ➤

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Early Grumman Ag-Cat spray demonstration.

Tomatoes were the principal crop treated by these early operators and aircraft dusting was an old story there well before World War II. The original Huff-Daland Dusters, and later Delta Air Service, expanded into some citrus work even in those Dark Ages. But, as in most localities, no real expansion occurred until shortly after the war. One of the first of this generation of Florida firms was Hall Dusting Service of Homestead. Ralph Hall, an Eastern Air Lines captain, while not an ag pilot himse1f, was vitally interested in this new industry. He established his firm directly after the hostilities ceased. Naturally, his company’s aircraft were Stearmans, equipped with dust hoppers. Among Hall’s early pilots were Jim Meek, Joe Brown, and William (Bill) A. Jones. Their impact on the fledgling industry was made possible by two exceptional field men, Johnny Osterholt and George Eicher. These two fellows were “characters” in their own right, especially Osterholt. Hall Dusting Service was exploiting the use of aircraft all over the Florida vegetable growing area, especially around Homestead. This land is not particularly rich, but the long growing season and inflated value of out-of-season produce made it possible for growers to fertilize heavily, irrigate when necessary, and, in general, spend all of the money necessary to ensure a crop. A lucky grower could sometimes actually get rich on one big out-of-season crop. The success of Hall Dusting Service in this area led to the formation of many new operations. Within a few years, ag aviation businesses had sprung up all over Florida. The well-remembered J.R. McDaniel, who gave Carl Heimer his start in the business, began Florida operations along with John Gardner at Zellwood. Also entering the Florida scene were Jim Sanders, originally from the East Coast, Buster B 8 | agairupdate.com

Christopher, the Potters at Zellwood, and the famous Indian River Flying Service in Indian River County. With competition much keener, early Florida aerial applicators began migrating northward. By 1947, Hall Dusting Service, headed by Osterholt, was operating seasonally in the Mississippi Delta, basing in Clarksdale. Others of this early breed settled down with seasonal bases in South Carolina, Georgia, and Alabama. They became so well known that they were actually considered “natives” of the region they were serving. Osterholt, upon arriving in Mississippi in early July, would personally visit every fanner in the trade area and hand out his business card. He had a pet closing line for fanners that went something like this: “Well, Mr. Fanner, I sure hope you don’t have any boll weevil this year, but if you do, you know who to call!” Bill Jones, Jim Meek, and Joe Brown were all pilots of ability. The work done by this firm was very good. All of these early pilots later went into business for themselves. But Hall Dusting Service continued for many years, finally expiring when Osterholt semi-retired and went into the motel business. In addition to being a salesman of custom insecticide service, Johnny Osterholt could sell anything. During the boll weevil season of 1949, the Mississippi Valley fleet was not sufficient to take care of the demand and it became necessary to buy another duster from Osterholt. Johnny held the buyer’s feet to the fire when the trading began and was finally paid the princely sum of $1,800 for a fine 220 Continental Stearman—an unheard of price at that time. The new owners operated the plane for two or three weeks. Then Osterholt found himself in a bind for airplanes and repurchased the same machine for the identical $1,800. ➤

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Another interesting Floridian during this era was Curtis Pitts of “Pitts Special” fame. Pitts was from south Florida and came to Jacksonville after leaving the service. He began working on the ultimate aerobatic ship, laying out the first drawings on the hangar floor. CLOCKWISE FROM TOP Pioneer A.T. Morgan of Morgan Crop Service, Lake Charles, Louisiana, applying fertilizer to rice

Pitts doesn’t deny the allegation that the first “drawings” were made with chalk on the little galvanized hangar floor. He admits that the fuselage members were welded together by laying them along these chalk lines and squatting over them with an acetylene torch!

in the early 1950s. A.T. Morgan and friend alongside Stearman in the 1950s. Morgan was the first NAAA treasurer in 1967. Photo courtesy of A.T. Morgan. A rotary disc spreader adorns an ag aircraft in Florida in 1948. Florida's prime vegetable growing land offered excellent business opportunities for both growers and aerial

In any case, the first Pitts Special came out of the hangar in 1945 and was granted a Type Certificate by CAA. Everyone knows what has happened since then. The airplane soon became recognized worldwide as the best of the best. These little masterpieces are still being produced. Pitts recently discussed the days when he became engaged in ag flying. Economics being what they were, he organized a dusting service about 1948 and worked Steannans extensively in Florida and Mississippi. Pitts built and installed his own hoppers. He designed and built one of the first vaned spreaders seen in dusting circles.

applicators alike. Pitts-type spreader on Stearman.

He eventually worked himself out of the ag flying game and devoted his time to the further development of the Pitts Special. He now lives in Homestead in what he calls “semiretirement.” As the 1950s progressed, Leland Snow’s success with the original S-1 spurred considerable interest from other commercial firms and some of them began seriously researching the field. Among such firms was the huge Grumman Aircraft Corporation of Bethpage, New York, an old and highly respected firm whose history dates back to directly after World War I. In the early 1920s, Grumman put together some very successful flying boats. By the time World War II came along, the company was heavily into the manufacture of military aircraft, particularly the “Cat” series for the U.S. Navy. Hundreds of Navy and Marine Corps pilots, particularly those

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engaged in South Pacific combat, hold fond memories of these superb aircraft. Grumman’s contribution to the war effort was unparalleled and its reputation secure. Grumman moved very cautiously into the ag aircraft field and spent thousands of dollars and man-hours in the field. Its representatives questioned operators and pilots, observed conversions being made in custom shops, and generally learned first-hand exactly what the industry felt was needed in an agricultural aircraft. The actual idea for building this plane came from the talented Joseph L. Lippert. He easily persuaded Grumman to allow him to research and design an ag plane and was ably assisted by designer Arthur R. Koch. Lippert and Koch embarked on a tour of the country’s busiest ag flying areas, where they would settle in for periods of several weeks, talking with operators, visiting shops, and generally trying to learn what was wanted and needed. This was perhaps the first time that a major aircraft firm had worked on the premise of building what the industry wanted rather than on selling what it already had! ➤

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Lippert and Koch visited extensively with operators such as Dick Reade at Mid-Continent Aircraft in Hayti, Missouri. This firm was destined to become the first Ag-Cat distributor, and Reade was responsible for giving the aircraft its name.

to the most powerful “King Cat” provided by Mid-Continental Aircraft, utilizing the terrific old 1200 HP P & W. Also common today are the Turbo-Powered Cats, plus a wide range of intermediate engines.

Apparently the opinion shared by these two men was that the industry wanted a biplane that was safe and easy to maintain. They then put together a team that designed and built the first two prototypes, known at Grumman as the X-1 and the X-2. The most visible difference between the two models was that the X-2 could be identified by the geodetic rib design in the wing panels.

Schweizer Aircraft

Actual construction was done by Schweizer Aircraft Corporation at Elmira, New York, a firm known for its superb gliders. Light aircraft of this nature utilized fabric covering, rib stitching, and other intricate work not common with most plane manufacturers. At this time, Terrell P. Kirk, Jr. was Grumman’s test pilot, and, as production moved along, he was put in charge of almost everything. In addition to his flying duties, his responsibilities included advertising, public relations, sales, and production. Kirk flew the first flights in these prototypes. In the autumn of 1957 a Type Certificate was issued, and the renowned “Ag-Cat” entered the field. Kirk remained with Grumman in this capacity throughout all of the years that Grumman produced these aircraft. He flew every model ever produced. The first models of this new machine were powered with the familiar 220 HP Continental W670. Shortly after the aircraft’s debut, Gulf Coast Airmotive in Texas began converting surplus 240 HP Continental “tank” engines for aircraft use, and this engine became optional on the Cat. This tank engine was exactly that-a W670 radial Continental used by the thousands in a military tank during World War II. It was virtually identical to the standard W670 aircraft engine except for a short crankshaft. Numerous firms attempted to use this engine, but it was never satisfactory in its unconverted form due to problems in adapting a suitable propeller to the stub crankshaft. Gulf Coast solved this problem to a degree by utilizing a longer crankshaft. A great many of these.engines wound up in aircraft in a restricted category. During the years following its introduction in 1957, thousands of updated Cats were and continue to be built. They have run the gamut from the lowly 220 HP Continental B 12 | agairupdate.com

In 1980, Grumman management decided to divest itself of the agricultural line and a transfer of all properties in inventories was made to the original producer, Schweizer Aircraft Corporation at Elmira. Terrell Kirk remained with Grumman, and Joe Kosier, an eight-year veteran with Grumman, went with Schweizer and now heads up its ag aircraft line. Production models are coming off the line regularly. The Cat, it appears, will be around for a long, long time. This can be proved most conclusively from the fact that number one, N10200, built in 1957, is still flying every day, a rather remarkable testimony after 25 years of service.

The lands and waters along the southern Louisiana coastline, are fascinating to the eye and a dream come true for hunters, fishermen, and ag pilots. Louisiana and Mississippi Developments The lands and waters along the southern Louisiana coastline, particularly the areas surrounding the towns of Lake Charles, Crowley, Abbeville, Jeanerette, Morgan City, and Belle Rose, are fascinating to the eye and a dream come true for hunters, fishermen, and ag pilots. Ducks and geese winter throughout this region by the millions. Fish of every species, both salt and fresh water, are there for the taking. And rice grows almost endlessly across this ultra-flat, water-rich region. Lakes and streams with fascinating French names like Calisieu Lake, Lake Misere, Bayou Queue de Tortue, Lake Palourde, and Vermilion Bay abound. A stranger in these parts has no trouble at all envisioning this country 200 years ago, when pirates plied their trade on the nearby open Gulf and hid away in this vast swampland until the coast was clear. Historically, this has been rice growing country, and at the end of World War II the exploding economy brought an even more rapid increase in tilled acreage. This created an early and exceptionally strong market for agricultural flying and other more modern farming techniques.

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TWENTY YEARS AGO

Thrash Aviation Meets Community PR challenge by Bill Lavender

(L-R) Jimmy and Helen Thrash, along with ground crew supervisor Michael Noel and crew member Guy Hodges (second loader crew member, Chris Meagley not shown) in front of one of Thrash Aviation’s loader trucks, built by Auger Dan of Arkansas.

Jim Jeffries of Jeffries Airworks hard at work setting the prop balance of Thrash Aviation’s AT-602.

PERRY, GA — After the ag aviation shut down from the 9/11 attacks, everyone in this industry realized things were about to change, at least for the short term, if not forever. Fortunately, 9/11 occurred as the majority of ag operators were winding down for the year. However, one company, Thrash Aviation, was faced with the reality of multiple flight missions, often from public airports throughout the southeastern United States. Jimmy and Helen Thrash base their operation in Pelahatchie, Mississippi. The company finds itself operating from a multitude of both public (75% of operations) and private airstrips spreading dry fertilizers on pine trees. Because of this, Jimmy and Helen became keenly aware of the potential difficulties the events of 9/11 could cause their operations. Only days after 9/11, Helen walked into the offices of AgAir Update looking for a good picture of an Air Tractor AT-602 that she could email.

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With the writing help of Jim Jeffries (Jeffries Airworks), she held a letter written to newspaper editors explaining what Thrash Aviation was doing in their area. Her plan was to attach a picture of the AT-602 to the letter and mail, email or hand deliver it to every newspaper that covered the news in the area where Thrash Aviation would be operating (see side bar, page 12). Helen’s efforts were a huge success with coverage in most of the newspapers, often on the front page. Thrash Aviation operates six ag aircraft; five AT-602s and one AT-802. These aircraft are capable of applying 500 tons of fertilizer, 20 semi-truck loads, in a ten-hour period, with loading turnarounds in the 45-second range. Efficiency is the name of the game, the difference in a profit or a loss. Thrash Aviation could not afford to be shut down due to community complaints. Every precaution would have to be taken. ➤

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Informing the public was nothing new to Thrash Aviation. It has always been the company’s policy to respect the communities where they work. With the 9/11 events, now it was becoming even more important the community was kept informed. Upon arriving into an area, Thrash Aviation contacts the local dispatcher of the sheriff’s office, and the local police if operating near a township. The company provides its original letter with the AT-602 picture for areas they’ve not yet visited since 9/11, and a follow-up letter for those areas where the company is operating for the second time since 9/11, such as in Perry, Georgia (see side bar, page 12). Thrash Aviation also has a video explaining Thrash Aviation operations that can be given to community leaders, news media and law enforcement. However, Thrash Aviation has avoided TV coverage, concerned it would lose control of the content of the presentation. Thrash Aviation is quick to point out to community leaders its operations are a benefit to the community by crews eating and sleeping at the local restaurants and hotels; that good forestry management requires fertilization and that is good for the wildlife; and Thrash Aviation is conducting its operations in compliance to all rules of the FAA, OSHA and local and state ordinances. This type of public relations often avoids telephone calls and problems from the community. However, should someone complain about an overflight, or inquire about anything, Thrash Aviation’s policy is to respond immediately. In the case of an overflight of a residence or business, once the location is identified, Thrash Aviation aircraft will circumnavigate the area, no questions asked. Should someone approach the loading operations, every effort is made to answer any questions. Often this “breaks the ice”, and once the individual understands the intentions of Thrash Aviation, the problem goes away. It should be noted for safety and security reasons, the public is not allowed in the operations area. Community relations is not the only appeasement Thrash Aviation is faced with, the FBO of public airports can be a big problem, or an asset. Jimmy and Helen have found that it is of the utmost importance to work with the FBO as much as possible, explaining dry material only is loaded over sealed mats and that no fertilizer will be left on the ramp. In some cases, public airports have placed Thrash Aviation in a compromising situation, refusing the company access to the airport unless high landing fees or requirements to buy fuel are complied with. However, a call to the FAA usually remedies the unfair treatment. When a company is buying B 16 | agairupdate.com

Thrash Aviation’s Justin Anderson takes on another load of fertilizer in AT-602.

over 500,000 gallons of Jet-A per annum, it can’t afford to buy it at retail prices. Also, with six thirsty Air Tractors with -60 series PT6A engines (about 70 gph) working ten hours a day, seven days a week, a typical FBO may not be able to provide the fuel in an efficient manner. In the three to four days, usually, that Thrash Aviation is on location, things go pretty well. It takes extensive planning to make an operation of this size work. The six aircraft are split into two crews of three aircraft each. Although one crew may be only a few miles away, they usually operate from different airports and base from different towns. For security reasons, the supervisor of each crew stays on the job site in a motor home or Airstream-type camper that travels with them from job to job. It serves as an office and sleeping quarters for the supervisor. This assures the security of the aircraft, as well as the loading equipment. Operations are year round, except for a break during Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. Most of the urea or DAP fertilizer is spread from October through May. Operations are cut back to three aircraft from June through September. Flights are conducted from early morning to late evening during daylight hours seven days a week, except on Sunday mornings out of respect for churchgoers. Thrash Aviation pilots, seven to eight of them during the busy season, are on the road for four to six long weeks. Between the six aircraft, the extra one or two pilots switch off with the other pilots to give each pilot about a week long break every four to six weeks. Thrash Aviation pilots log in excess of 1,500 hours of flying a year. After a month or so on the road, the relief pilot is a welcome sight. The same policy is applied with the ground crew. The supervisors are relieved by Jimmy and Helen as they move from one crew to the other in their motor home. ➤

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Working such a large operation throughout twelve southern states, stretching as far west as Texas, across and down through Florida, and north to Virginia with all stops in between is no easy task. Without efficiency there is no profit. Coordination is the order of the day. Thrash Aviation cannot afford to be waiting on fertilizer trucks or fuel trucks. The Air Tractors must stay in the air all day long, with exceptions for weather or maintenance. In the fall, Jimmy and Helen have a realistic idea of how much fertilizer is needed and where it will be spread in those twelve states in the next twelve months. The logistics of having the fertilizer on site and enough fuel to complete the job keeps both of them busy. Jimmy knows from years of experience local fertilizer plants and truck brokers cannot be depended upon to deliver on time. He cites one incident when he tried to use a broker and woke the next morning with thirty semi-trailer loads of fertilizer lined up expecting to be unloaded immediately! Thrash Aviation contracts with dedicated truck drivers. This means the owner/operator of the trucks is a private contractor, but dedicated to only delivering fertilizer to Thrash Aviation, no matter where the company is operating. It takes as many as six dedicated trucks and sometimes additional outside trucks to keep the six Air Tractors supplied with fertilizer. To complicate matters further, Thrash Aviation’s contracts with the timber companies require the job to be turnkey, providing both the flying and the fertilizer and all related expenses, whatever they may be. This means Jimmy must bid his contract with a firm price for the fertilizer. It also means that Thrash Aviation must have the wherewithal to handle a fertilizer bill that floats around $1,000,000! Jet-A is bought from suppliers who understand the need for fuel availability and the importance of a fair and competitive price. A $0.10 per gallon difference in fuel prices can mean $50,000 in profits. “Fertilizing trees is not the same as fertilizing rice”, says Jimmy while talking about having good pilots fly his aircraft. Although Jimmy has thousands of timber fertilization hours, he no longer has the time to devote to flying himself because management of the company requires such a vast amount of his time. His flight experience helps him hire and train good ag pilots. Throughout the years, Jimmy has learned that “rice pilots” are not “pine tree pilots”; and high time pilots don’t necessarily fit the bill. Thrash Aviation requires unique flying skills and procedures from their pilots. To begin with, the first flight of every day is made empty! Often the company is working in cold conditions where there may be frost on the wings or even B 18 | agairupdate.com

a trace of ice in the fuel. Jimmy has found from previous experience, it is best to check out the aircraft empty each day with a circle around the air strip. Thrash Aviation pilots are instructed to following specific procedures that include observing the traffic pattern of the airport they are flying from, fly to the timber track at 500 feet MSL or higher, and always give general aviation aircraft the right-of-way regardless of which aircraft has the legal right-of-way. Every landing and takeoff is made from the three-point configuration. When a company is wearing out six sets of tires every two weeks and six sets of brakes for every two sets of tires, the way a pilot lands makes a huge difference. Takeoffs are made using cruise power up to full power, depending on the length of the strip. With three-point takeoffs, the props are less likely to pick up rocks or other debris. With three-point landings, the pilot is landing at the slowest possible speed minimizing wear on the tires and brakes. Considering 30-40 takeoffs and landings a day, these become important procedures. Pilot Cleo King recently logged 14 starts, 146 takeoffs and landings in 41.5 hours during a seven-day period. The numbers can be more or less, depending on how close the work is to the runway and how many days weather allows operations. Just in case you are wondering, every engine start, takeoff and landing is recorded, and each mission is data logged and downloaded every night. The timber companies require the data logging and Jimmy needs the cycle counts for engine maintenance. It is true that timber fertilizing takes place in the off-season for many ag aviation companies. However, timber fertilizing is not a sideline job. It is a full-blown operation that is year round and requires dedicated equipment with an intensive ground operation. The pilots must be specially trained and the operation’s administration duties must be monitored constantly. Efficiency is the key to success, along with safety and community awareness. Aerial timber fertilization is very unlike any other facet of ag aviation, requiring an expertise all its own. Thrash Aviation has pioneered and created a niche in timber fertilizing. Jimmy and Helen Thrash are dedicated to providing a professional service in a timely manner. They and their crews are setting good examples for ag aviation when they are the guest of public and private airports throughout the South. From their efforts in public relations, all of ag aviation has benefited. Thrash Aviation’s operation practices would be good ones to follow. ➤

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Cropduster-type Planes Fertilize Trees Locally During the next few weeks, Thrash Aviation, Inc. of Pelahatchie, Mississippi will be in the area flying agricultural aircraft and applying dry fertilizer to pine tree forests. Due to the recent 9/11 events and concerns that crop dusting-type aircraft could be used for spreading bio-hazardous materials, Thrash Aviation offers some facts that may calm your fears. The yellow and blue agricultural aircraft belonging to this company will be flying over primarily pine forests at a very low altitude. Very low can mean as low as 50 feet over the tops of pine tree stands. The planes will be spreading or dropping, if you will, a mixture of simple white or reddish brown farmtype fertilizer. This material is dry granules and non-toxic. It is harmless to people, livestock, homes or vehicles. The purpose of this granular material is to fertilize the pine trees, just as you would fertilize your garden or flower beds. The main operation sites for Thrash Aviation are mobile. This is to say that various mobile offices, tractor-trailer trucks and loading and crew vehicles move from location to location. Each location of operations is generally some kind of aircraft landing field. It could be

a small county airport of it could be a remote grass strip. The normal hours of operation, in good weather, are from daylight until dark. The work operations and flights are usually shut down on Sundays during church hours. Recently our country has experienced terrible events- events that have shocked and horrified us all. And yet, even in light of those terrible events, our President and leaders of Congress have encouraged all of us to go back to work and to try and live in as normal a way as possible. The spreading of farm-type fertilizer on pine trees across the southeastern United States is the job of Thrash Aviation. The company has managers on location that can and will answer your questions. It should be noted that for safety and security reasons, the company does not allow visitors at the aircraft operation sites. County sheriff departments have also been notified of flight operations taking place in the area. Thrash Aviation hopes this article has been informative and reassuring. They thank you in advance for your patience and hospitality as they work to enhance the productivity of the pine tree forest. MAY GOD BLESS AMERICA!

(L-R) Pilot Aubrey McKinley, along with ground supervisor Terry Smith and able assistant-wife Kathy in front of one of Thrash Aviation’s motor homes.

A Follow Up Letter If you look up in the sky in the next few weeks and see a squadron of yellow and blue airplanes dropping a mixture of simple white or reddish brown farm type material, don’t panic. It is a routine application of fertilizer on pine tree plantations owned by the major Georgia timber companies and applied by Thrash Aviation of Pelahatchie, MS. Thrash Aviation wants to ensure that everyone in the area is aware of the process, which is part of an ongoing effort to improve the growth of the local pine forests. The process is an essential part of maintenance and growth that improves the well-being of future forests. Thrash Aviation is once again in the ________ area helping produce quick growing pine trees which provides jobs, lumber and the many paper products we use daily.

Dear Editor; Please find enclosed the following Press Release about agricultural aircraft (crop dusters) operating in your publication’s distribution area. Your help and cooperation in releasing this information will help to inform your readers about what is exactly happening, and hopefully prevent any unnecessary alarm. Best regards, Jimmy Thrash Thrash Aviation, Inc.

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Screenshot from the TRAVICAR SGE Software.

Operational Planning for Agricultural Aviation By Eduardo Boris Operational planning in aerial spraying is the key to success for ag aviation companies that provide specialized services. Well done planning is extremely important to achieve their profitability targets. However, it is only possible if companies consider all types of variables, calculating the accurate time of operation.

Through the SGE Portal, it is also possible to calculate the best entry angle and strategy to be used for the flight. This tool will be the base for all operational calculations that I will present in this article. For that, we have considered data provided by users.

Data Collection and Definition of Parameters for Planning.

I am the owner of Travicar Technologia Agricola, LTDA, which is more than 51 years old. Since I started in the agricultural technology industry, I have been studying several procedures to make aerial spraying more effective and profitable. My knowledge has allowed me to participate in the development of exclusive products to the ag aviation sector. Besides being close to ag-pilots and entrepreneurs, learning and taking part in operational logistics of agricultural aircraft was essential to creating equipment, hardware and software for Travicar. As important as the agricultural aircraft’s spray system is, using high accuracy tools such as TRAVICAR DGPS and the launch of TRAVICAR SGE Portal, it is possible to set working parameters in order to achieve quality spraying and a financial return, as well. Through these tools, the best route to spray can be identified to know the flight, ferry, turnaround and load total times for the aircraft. These products can help determine the best equipment to do the service. B 22 | agairupdate.com

Financial Parameters in Travicar SGE

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Before starting our study and proposing an operational planning method with standard cost and suggested price of an aerial spraying service, it is necessary to establish many fundamental parameters. 1 – Financial Parameters: Cost/Hour: The whole operation is based on the total time of a service. This way, the most important financial variable to reach the standard cost and also the price formation of the service is the “cost/hour”. It is basically established by the sum of all spent values in the operation, divided by the total flown hours, or it is divided by the available hours in the evaluated period. Taxes are deducted from the sum of the spent values. Profit Margin: It is the value the company expects to earn from a service. The percentage of profit margin has to be proportional to the activity’s risks. Taxes: Consideration has to be given to the tax percentage imposed on the performed services. 2 – Operational Parameters:

Daily Work Period: It is the quantity of available daily hours that the company has to provide spraying services. Loading Time: The average time interval the support group has to provide aircraft loading. This data shows how important it is for properly sized ground equipment. 3 – Aircraft Parameters:

Turnaround Width is an Important Parameter to Calculate the Best Strategy Turnaround Width: It is the distance in the turns. The aim is to have maximum flexibility and use of the aircraft movement, avoiding traveling long distances. The pilot decides that.

Aircraft Speeds Average Aircraft Speed Components During an Aerial Application Load Capacity (Hopper): Load capacity per flight of the aircraft. Average Aircraft Speed: It is necessary to calculate the average speed in three parameters to determine the operational calculation: application, ferry and turnaround speeds. This information can be obtained through the evaluation of a completed area. Spray Speed: It is the average speed while the aircraft is spraying and it becomes the base for the calibration of nozzles and atomizers. Ferry Speed: It is the average flight speed during landings, takeoffs, and distances between the base runway and the reloading runway.

Operational Parameters and Parameters of the Aircraft in Travicar SGE B 24 | agairupdate.com

Turnaround Width

Application Time: It is the average time for the sprayed areas.

Turnaround Length Turnaround Length is an Important Parameter to Calculate the Time to Make the Turn Turnaround Length: It is a variable that depends on several facts, such as: aircraft model, hopper loading, weather, have to know a defineded average value, because we will use this parameter plus the width return to calculate the estimated time that will be spent to perform all returns in one operation.

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4 – Application Parameters: Flight Height: This variable is not essential to the operational calculation. On the other hand, this tool is significant to the application quality because the application quality is totally dependent on the flight height. As we are always looking for the best application, it is necessary to be fitted with tools to achieve a standard and efficiency in aerial applications. Swatch Width: It is significant to calculate the time of operation and also to define the best strategy and angle of entry. It is a variable defined by the user and it is based on practical field tests that are fundamental to ensure the final result of the application. Spray Flow: It is the most referred variable when we think of spraying, because it is directly related to the operating income and application goals. For calculation purposes, it is important and it directly influences the total operational time. Entry Angle: The most efficient entry angle is complex due to the varied geometries of the different areas. When we analyzed applications throughout the years, we noticed there was significant time and money wasted. This happens because there were not efficient tools to help pilots. The main function of the TRAVICAR SGE is to perform several calculations in all 360 possible entry angles into an area. Then define which one will be the most efficient; the shortest operating time. Flight Strategy: The flight strategy and the entry angle are the choices that can define the profit of an operation. It is necessary to choose a strategy in combination with, the spraying area width and the entry angle being more efficient and to perform the work in the shortest possible time. Again, doing those things is impossible without

Data and Parameters some tools. TRAVICAR SGE helps us to solve these issues and difficulties, calculating automatically and creating answers that help to make the best decision.

Operational Planning in Practice In the chart below, information with the necessary data for operational planning of an agricultural aviation company. 1 – Entering Geographic/Aircraft/ Operational Parameters: First, the creation of a polygon marking the base and satellite runways. Next, we insert the hopper loading, application speed, transfer speed, turnaround time, turnaround width, turnaround length, reloading and work period. Then, we go to the next tab of the planning software.

2 – Inserting Application Parameters: On this second step, we fill-in the Swath Width and the Spray Flow. The simulation can be done with several areas at the same time, with different application parameters, bringing us an average price for a specific area in a region. 3 – Inserting Financial Parameters: Finishing the data filling, we see the financial parameters: Cost/Hour, Profit Margin and Tax. Now, it will be necessary to do two more procedures: using the Best Route button for the previously calculated smallest piece of land and next, clicking on the Best Strategy button that will define among the 360 entry possibilities which one will create the shortest route and which strategy will be used. At this time, we will know the shortest operation time and the lowest cost. ➤ agairupdate.com | B 25

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Travicar SGE Planning

4 – Results:

5 – Report:

The final calculation result states the Total Operating Time to perform the proposed area will be five hours, thirty minutes and seventeen seconds, choosing a racetrack strategy at an entry angle of 96º. The software also calculates the operation time with other available strategies; Back to Back / Skip Back to Back / Quick Racetrack / Reverse Racetrack / Expand and Squeeze.

The operational report is the closing of the planning cycle. From this document, we can determine actions to provide the service in the area in question.

From these parameters it is possible to separate the Total Operating Time for: Turnaround Time / Application Time / Transfer Time / Reload). Now, it is possible to evaluate the necessary actions to optimize our operation. For example, investing in equipment and a single team to reduce the loading time and increase profits, building new runways closer to areas to reduce the ferry time. The software calculates the best strategy and also the best entry angle, making the operation more efficient.

After the approval to spray, I must treat the area in accordance with the plan. Then evaluate it, to see if the entire plan was done, also verifying goals were achieved.

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In the report, there is operating time, cost of service and price to be charged. With this information, I know how much I can negotiate, if necessary, without affecting operational profit.

Result of the Planning Calculation Total Operating Time is the Most Important Calculation Result At the end, the software suggests a value to be charged for the service, based on the calculated total operating time. After the plan’s completion, the company is able to reach its operational and financial goals.

Planning is key to the success of the operation. The goal is always to maintain a standard and avoid exceptions. Working with exceptions is like working in the darkness. As agricultural aviation operators, we must not put at risk our personal, financial and operational integrity.

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NAAHOF INDUCTEE SPOTLIGHT National Agricultural Aviation Museum’s Hall of Fame

William (Bill) Hatfield of Nunica, Michigan, has been a driving force in ag-aviation since the early 1970s, over 50 years. His participation in the National Agricultural Aviation Association (NAAA) and state associations have focused on protecting the agricultural aviation industry through legislation and has helped enhance the public’s perception of the industry being made up of professionals. Bill established Hatfield Spraying in 1970. He has worked tirelessly every day to provide the best service and knowledgeable crop care to all his customers. He has trained many young ag-pilots that are now operator members of the Michigan Agricultural Aviation Association (MAAA) and NAAA. He was a forerunner investing in turbine power for ag-aircraft, designing and developing many improvements to agriculture aviation aircraft. It was his early realization that turbine-powered aircraft were the future of ag-aviation. Bill installed the third Frakes Turbo Cat package in 1978. This and his innovative ideas on making aircraft more reliable and safer led Bill to start Turbine Conversions, Ltd. in 1990. This allowed him to bring his ideas to the ag aviation industry. Turbine Conversions, Ltd. has developed, marketed, and brought back to market 28 FAA-approved STCs that improve the operations of many types of agricultural aircraft. Among Bill’s many accomplishments, he has worked continuously as an ag-pilot since 1965. He was the cofounder of the MAAA. In the 1970s, he worked with Michigan State University with Dr. Potter on copper trace elements. Bill served on the board of directors of the NAAA as the MAAA representative from 1971 to 1981. During this time, he cofounded Operation SAFE and was chairman of the Research and Technology committee. Additionally, he served as vice president for the NAAA in 1977 and flew the original test flights for “Neat” BT. He also served in 1994/1995 on the NAAA’s Long Range and Planning committee as its chairman. After forming Turbine Conversions, LTD. in 1990, Bill designed, developed, and marketed innovative, new products to make the agricultural aviation industry safer and more profitable throughout the world. For example, he converted B 28 | agairupdate.com

a piston-powered M18 Dromader to a Pratt & Whitney Canada turbine-powered engine. He also developed turbine conversion kits for the GE/Walter engines on Thrush, Ag-Cat and AT-400 Air Tractor. In 1991, Turbine Conversions, LTD. became an approved PMA facility by the FAA. Other well-known accomplishments is the hydraulic fire gate that has been approved by the Interagency Airtanker Board (IAB). Along with that accomplishment, Bill developed the only STC-available single-point fueling system, which has received approval from the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for hot refueling of agricultural aircraft on fire contracts. Among Bill’s long list of accomplishments are: •

1980- NAAA Agrinaut Award for outstanding contributions to the field of aircraft operations; • 1984- NAAA Falcon Club Award presented by the NAAA President for outstanding contributions to the industry; • 2001- Delta Airlines “Puffer” Award for outstanding contributions to the design of ag-aircraft and related equipment; • 2007 to Current- President of the National Single Engine Air Tanker Association; • 2010- Brought back to the market the P&WCpowered Turbo Cat Ag-Cat by purchasing Frakes Aviation’s ag aviation STC. This was possible because of Bill’s long term dedication to the product and his reputation of being an honest businessman in the community; • 2013- Wright Brothers “Master Pilot” Award from the FAA for 50 years of dedicated service to aviation safety. Bill’s entire professional life has been dedicated to making the industry the best it can be. He has worked with companies and operators in the US and around the world to assure the industry’s success. He has been a key advisor on many projects both in the state of Michigan and in the US, which will continue to benefit the ag-aviation industry and its pilots for years to come. William (Bill) Hatfield has shown what it is to be professional, honest, and innovative for his dedication to advancing the ag-operators profession.

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Mind Your Meds Pilots often ask which medications are permissible for flight and where they can find this information. Let’s check out some of the top prescription medications in the United States (according to GoodRx. com) and review how we consider them for medical certification. Here's a link to the Pharmaceuticals (Therapeutic Medications) section of the AME Guide for further guidance (bit.ly/ AMEGuideTherapeutics).

Usually Acceptable Atorvastatin (Lipitor®): this medication is used for high cholesterol and is allowed if the user experiences no significant side effects. Like any acceptable medication, wait at least 48 hours (some need a longer ground trial) after the first dose to make sure you have no problems with the medication. Lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril): an angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor (ACE-I) used for high blood pressure or heart failure. Most high blood pressure medications are allowed after a seven day ground trial. Review the disposition tables here (bit.ly/HeartHypertension) to see what information you need from your personal physician for your AME to issue a medical certificate under Conditions an AME Can Issue (CACI). Another resource is this FAQ page (bit.ly/ HeartHypertensionFAQs) (PDF) which you’ll also find helpful for these next two medications. B 30 | agairupdate.com

Pilots often ask which medications are permissible for flight and where they can find this information. Let’s check out some of the top prescription medications in the United States (according to GoodRx. com) and review how we consider them for medical certification. Amlodipine (Norvasc®): a calcium channel blocker (CCB) used for high blood pressure. If you take it for any other reason, let your AME know why. Losartan (Cozaar): an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) used for high blood pressure. It also reduces the likelihood of stroke and protects against kidney disease in individuals with diabetes. It can be acceptable for all of these conditions. ➤

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Albuterol (Accuneb®, Ventolin, Proair®, Proventil®): this medication is used to treat wheezing and shortness of breath from asthma or COPD. Review the CACI Asthma worksheet (bit.ly/CACIAsthma) (PDF), and bring a copy to your personal doctor, so they know which medications are acceptable for flight. Be sure to tell your AME what you use, how often you use it, and why. Levothyroxine (Synthroid®, Unithroid®, Levoxyl®): this medication is used for hypothyroidism. Review the CACI Hypothyroidism Worksheet (bit.ly/CACIHypothyroidism) (PDF). Provide a copy to your personal doctor to help ensure that their clinical note includes the information we need for medical certification. Metformin (Glucophage) for Diabetes: check out the Acceptable Combinations of Diabetes Medications (bit.ly/ ComboDiabetesMeds) (PDF). This two-page chart lets you, your AME, and (if you bring them a copy) your personal B 32 | agairupdate.com

physician know what medications the FAA allows for pilots and how long you must wait to return to active flying after starting, adding, or changing diabetes medication.

Unacceptable for Flight Gabapentin (Neurontin®): used for seizures, nerve pain, or shingles pain, this medication can make you drowsy or dizzy, may slow your thinking, and cause loss of coordination. In fact, the prescription insert warns you not to drive a car or operate heavy machinery. Neurontin and similar sedating medications are referenced on the Do Not Issue — Do Not Fly list in the AME Guide (bit.ly/NoIssueOrFly). Hydrocodone/Acetaminophen (Lortab®, Vicoden®, Norco®): these pain medications can cause sedation and/or dizziness and are unacceptable for flight. Besides, if you need a narcotic pain medication, you shouldn’t be flying. These medications are also found on the DNI-DNF list and in the Medications and Flying brochure (bit.ly/MedsFlying) (PDF).

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Diphenhydramine (Benadryl®): this is a common component in over-the-counter (OTC) sleep medications, many cough and cold combination medications, and some allergy medications. It is the most common medication seen in fatal aircraft accidents. If you take it, you should not fly for 60 hours after the last dose. If you need a medication for a cold, flying is not a good idea anyway. For acceptable allergy medications, check out the Allergy — Antihistamine page (bit.ly/ AllergyAntihistamine) (PDF).

OTC Medication Example Omeprazole (Prilosec): this is an OTC medication used to reduce stomach acid in many underlying conditions like heartburn, GERD, or ulcers. It is also available as a prescription medication in a higher dose. If you need an OTC medication, start here: What OTC medications can I take and still be safe to fly? (bit.ly/OTCMedstoFly) When in doubt about medications, ask your AME. Your personal physician might not understand the implications of many medications and/or conditions for flight safety. Ask them a simple question — Would they feel safe on an airplane if THEIR pilot was using this medication?

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A WING AND A PRAYER

Carlin Lawrence carlin@agairupdate.com

Patience Brings Many Rewards From God “Man is born into trouble as the sparks fly upward.”

“My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials” (James 1:2). James doesn’t say “if” we will face problems and troubles, but “when” we face them. Although most Christians don’t accept problems gracefully, there is a need for God to allow problems in our life. It’s not because God needs to know how strong our faith is—He knew everything about our entire life before we were ever born (Acts 15:18). How we handle our troubles and problems demonstrates to us how strong or weak our faith in Jesus Christ is. Christians are sinful people, and we live in a worldwide sinful society. Job said, “Man is born into trouble as the sparks fly upward” (Job 5:7). The natural consequences of mankind’s sinful nature is troubles and problems. “Man that is born of a woman is of few days and full of trouble (Job 14:1). “May the God of patience and comfort grant you to be like-minded toward one another, according to Christ Jesus” (Romans 15:5). God gives us the strength to go through our worldly problems with patience. “Strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering with joy” (Colossians 1:11). This world is controlled by satanic forces, and these evil forces influence many of the circumstances in our life. Job is a good example of how God allows Satan and his forces to influence our earthly lives (read Job 1-2). Peter tells us that when we suffer according to the will of God we are to continually commit our souls to our faithful Creator in doing what is right (1 Peter 4:19). Pleasing God in our thoughts and actions while we are suffering

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takes the power of God’s Holy Spirit working in our life. The Holy Spirit gives us the spiritual wisdom and understanding to go through our earthly problems with patience and joy. “Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray” (James 5:13). Prayer is a weapon for all the circumstances in a Christian’s life. There are many reasons why God allows Christians to go through physical and emotional pain. One of those reasons is, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation” (2 Corinthians 1:3). The trials of life provide God with an opportunity to show us our spiritual, mental and physical weaknesses. This allows God to comfort us with His strength and wisdom so that we will become the spiritually strong Christian that He wants us to be. The trials and suffering in a Christian’s earthly life are the thunderstorms that bring the rain of God’s blessings upon our lives to make us stronger Christians. After they were beaten, the apostles actually rejoiced that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His name (Acts 5:41). Paul said that he considered the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us (Romans 8:18). “But when you do good and suffer, if you take it patiently, this iscommendable before God” (1 Peter 2:20). We can isolate our self into our own little world, but troubles and problems will still invade our life. We can do our best to get some peace and comfort, but inevitable troubles and problems will come.

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It’s hard to be happy in these problems and troubles; but if we will “live by faith and not by sight” (2 Corinthians 5:7), these troubles and problems will be powerful learning experiences. We can glory in our tribulations knowing that they will produce perseverance, character, and hope (Romans 5:1-5). You can greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ…knowing that we were called to have adversity in our life that we may inherit a blessing (1 Peter 1:6-7, 2 Peter 3:9). “Knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience” (James 1:3). Problems in our life bring us into a more powerful faith in God and Jesus Christ. Where there is true faith troubles will lead us into a deeper prayer life with God and more knowledge of His word. When non-believers and weak faith Christians have serious problems they will usually get angry and upset. But when Christians of strong faith go through the same problems it will drive them to recognize their own weaknesses, and into prayer to depend on the power of God instead of their own weaknesses.

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The words “patience and “longsuffering” come from the same Greek word “makrothymia.” Being longsuffering is like an athlete that’s in good physical shape and can run long distances easily. A longsuffering Christian can withstand many problems in their life because of their strong faith in God and biblical knowledge. It’s hard to trust God when you know very little about His word! David said, “Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You” (Psalm 119:11). “But let patience (endurance) have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing” (James 1:4). Even in the severest trials of our life true and living faith will always find a place of comfort and joy. Trials in our life strengthen us and make us more useful for God’s purposes— trials never destroys true faith in Jesus Christ. Trials gives us a spiritual strength and maturity that helps us persevere. Trials we can’t control will humble us, and reveal to us what we really love—God or the things of this world. Trials will teach us to value God’s blessings, and give us the wisdom to help others in their trials (2 Corinthians 1:37). Trials help us to stop resisting God’s chastening, and understand and submit to God’s purposes for our life and become more like Jesus Christ. Isaiah wrote, “Those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint” (Isaiah 40:31). agairupdate.com | B 35

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Texas Agricultural Aviation Association Recognizes Operator and Pilot of the Year Each year TAAA recognizes an outstanding Operator of the year and an outstanding Pilot of the year at its Annual Award Banquet. Earlier this year, these presentations were made by awards chair Brad Lauderdale to two very deserving recipients. Please see the full story below. This year’s Operator of the Year is awarded to a thirdgeneration operator, that really exhibits the values of our organization and our industry. I am proud to announce that Blayne Rowland of Rowland Dusters is this year’s recipient. Rowland Dusters was started in 1946 by Bennard Rowland I in LaSara, TX. He was a military flight instructor during WWII and moved to the Rio Grande Valley to start his spraying service. He started a location in Newellton, La. soon after and would follow the seasons annually. In 1965 Bennard S Rowland II started his flying career and took over the La Sara operation in 1969 while his father continued to run the Louisiana operation until he retired at age 75. Rowland Dusters became a 3rd generation business when Blayne Rowland flew his first season in 1990 while still a student at Texas A&M. After graduation in 1991, Blayne became a full-time pilot at Rowland Dusters. Blayne married Gina in 1998 and they have three sons, AJ, Tyler and Tony. In 2014 Blayne took over the operator role while his father Ben continued flying in a pilot role. In April of 2019 Ben died in a spraying accident leaving a huge void in the family and the spraying operation. With the help of all the local operators, and friends from all over Texas, Rowland Dusters survived 2019, having sprayed a record number of acres. After 32 seasons Blayne has accumulated 26,000hrs, starting in an AT-400a then an AT-502 and for the last 7 seasons, an AT-602. Ross Shores, now in his fourth season, flies the company’s AT-502 and has become a productive and valuable asset. Rowland Dusters is truly a family run operation. After his grandfather died, AJ Rowland came back to help run the operation with that Rowland Dusters became a 4th generation business. AJ is now in charge of maintenance and much of the daily duties. Just this year Tony, Blayne’s youngest son, joined the operation and oversees running the office. Tyler runs the family's farm and ranch operations and is always available to help at the flying service. None B 36 | agairupdate.com

Operator of the Year Blayne Rowland

of this gets done without a strong and supportive partner. Blayne and the boys are very fortunate to have a great wife and a mother to help keep them all in line. She is the voice of reason that helps keep them safe and productive, the one that says, “it’s too damn windy” or “you’ve worked enough, time to come home”. None of this gets done without her. 2021 was the 75th Anniversary for Rowland Dusters and we are very proud to be a part of a great industry full of wonderful people. There are many pilots in our great state of Texas that deserve to be called the pilot of the year. This year’s award goes to someone that many of us in this room can call a friend and mentor, Rick Hernandez. With cash in hand from a high school summer job Rick started flying lessons at age 17 in 1970. By the time he reached 18 he was loading D model Snows beginning his career in Ag Aviation. Just a short two years later at 19 he began spraying in a Pawnee and then full speed at age 20 in a Thrush working rice.

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By the late 70s he was flying aluminum hopper Air Tractors in the Rio Grande Valley. Since the transition to working in South TX, Rick has sprayed in 14 different states as well as 2 foreign countries and of course has gone to help in many corners of TX. This year he completed his 45th year in an AgPlane and for the last 11, has been working for Ed Shores in Corpus Christi.

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INTERNATIONAL

SPREADING THE FACTS

Michelle Miller - michelle@thefarmbabe.com

Environmental Benefits of Ag Aviation Agricultural aviation began in the 1920s and remains a vital part of high-yield agriculture today. At the industry’s start, aerial application was commonly referred to as “crop dusting” because insecticides and other products were delivered as dry chemicals. Today, aerial applicators use products in liquid, granular, or seed form to control pests, provide nutrients, and even plant fields. At present, aerial application accounts for up to one-fourth of the application of crop protection products in the U.S. As with most conventional farming practices, aerial application has many misconceptions. One of the most common concerns is potential environmental harm. It has been speculated that delivering chemicals via aircraft cannot ensure the proper distribution to a given area and prevent unwanted carryover. However, modern technology and diligent professionals allow aerial applicators to operate with extremely minimal risk to public safety. To shed further light on this topic, I spoke with Mark Kimmel, 2021 President of the National Agricultural Aviation Association. According to him, agricultural aviation has come a long way since the early/mid-1950s. “Technology is what has changed our industry so much,” he said, adding that today’s ag aviation professionals are “good stewards of agriculture.”

Since the late 80’s/early ’90s, applicators have used GPS devices to guarantee the appropriate amount of product is applied uniformly. Careful consideration is also given to many factors such as nozzle size/design, spray formulation, application height, and spray pressure, helping applicators minimize off-target drift and keep the product where it’s supposed to be. To further aid with this initiative, Kimmel says planes are outfitted with onboard wind-detection devices that allow aerial applicators to monitor wind direction and strength in real-time. Additionally, pilots often release a small amount of smoke to see exactly where the wind is moving before releasing chemicals. According to Kimmel, variable rate technology has also allowed ag pilots to apply fertilizer with absolute precision and prevent overapplication, which saves costs. Ag pilots take on an immense amount of personal responsibility for the fields they treat and the integrity of surrounding areas. Kimmel explains that all activity is typically tracked by technology in the airplane, providing evidence of exactly where a pilot traveled, what was released, etc. Continual advancements in research, technology, and training allow them to be highly diligent about controlling chemical drift and abiding by EPA regulation. ➤ agairupdate.com | A 31

INTERNATIONAL

Many people don’t know that in addition to being safe and efficient, aerial application also provides several benefits to the environment that other methods of delivering crop protectants do not. Different ways of applying chemicals require some type of wheel to move through the field, whether a ground rig (tractor and sprayer) or a pivot irrigation system. This inevitably leads to some degree of soil compaction. Avoiding soil compaction is crucial as it increases the risk for soil erosion and inhibits optimal crop production. Less air space between soil particles reduces the rate at which water can infiltrate the soil, ultimately leading to excessive water use and an increased risk for water runoff. Root growth and function are likewise negatively affected, increasing the potential for crop diseases to take hold. Soil compaction also makes it harder for crops to emerge due to soil crusting. All of these factors lead to crop stress and ultimately decreased yields. Less yield means more land is necessary to generate the same amount of crop. Thus, the ability for aerial application to effectively deliver insecticides, fertilizers, fungicides, and other products without causing any soil compaction provides a significant advantage to farmers and the environment alike. Another significant benefit aerial application provides to the environment is its unique ability to assist farmers with planting cover crops. Planting cover crops is one of the most promising conservation practices farmers can use to promote soil quality and biodiversity in their fields. The seeds for these low maintenance crops, such as grasses, legumes, and small grains, are often sown aerially preharvest to improve the soil health, water quality and promote an ideal growing environment. Cover crops grow quickly and keep the soil in place, helping control erosion from factors such as wind and rain. Less erosion means less runoff, which helps keep sediment and other contaminants out of waterways. Cover crops also decompose eventually, adding organic matter to the soil for nutrients and reducing the need for fertilizer application. Lastly, cover crops significantly increase the biodiversity of a field by fostering an environment for natural pest deterrents and pollinators to flourish, in addition to preventing soil-borne pathogens and providing competition to weeds. And what role does aerial application play in the use of cover crops? Seeding cover crops aerially is a superior method of planting because of its speed and precise timing. They have more time to grow and provide the benefits discussed above when applied aerially. Additionally, the ideal time to plant many cover crops is before the main cash crop has been harvested. This means a ground rig would not deliver the

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cover crop seed at the optimal time without damaging the standing crop. Aerial application of seed also allows planting when fields are too wet to run a tractor and drill, further adding to the precise timing aerial application offers.

Planting cover crops is one of the most promising conservation practices farmers can use to promote soil quality and biodiversity in their fields. The seeds for these low maintenance crops, such as grasses, legumes, and small grains, are often sown aerially preharvest to improve the soil health, water quality and promote an ideal growing environment. It’s easy to be skeptical when you see a low, fast-flying aircraft dispensing an unknown spray over a field. But it’s important to know the facts before arriving at conclusions that aren’t supported by evidence. The fact here is that the ag aviation industry is extremely conscious of environmental protection and public safety. They are also a critical part of high yield agriculture needed to feed a growing population with less land available every year. So rest assured, those aerial applicators you see buzzing across fields around this country know what they’re doing and care immensely about the environment and your health.

SOURCES: 1) Frequently Asked Questions - R & M Spraying | R & M Spraying (rmspraying.com) 2) National Agricultural Aviation Association (agaviation.org ) 3) The Future of Agricultural Aviation is Up in the Air - Farm Flavor 4) IEEE Paper Template in A4 (V1) (usda.gov) 5) 510-1.pdf (gov.ab.ca)

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INTERNATIONAL

NTSB REPORTS Accident Synopses

NTSB Identification: CEN21LA283 Date: June 20, 2021 Location: Edwardsburg, MI Aircraft: AIR TRACTOR INC AT-502B Injuries: Minor The pilot reported that while conducting an aerial application pass over a field, the airplane stuck trees and subsequently impacted the ground. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage, both wings, and empennage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operations. The pilot reported that the field had rising terrain toward its southern edge and as the airplane approached the southern edge, the airplane was unable to climb above the rising terrain. It is likely the pilot failed to identify the rising terrain in time to clear the trees. Probable Cause and Findings — The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be: The pilot’s failure to identify rising terrain and to maintain terrain clearance from trees during an aerial application pass that resulted in an in-flight collision with trees and terrain.

NTSB Identification: CEN21LA322 Date: July 15, 2021 Location: Edcouch, TX Aircraft: Air Tractor AT502 Injuries: None The pilot stated that shortly after liftoff a wind gust decreased the airplane’s

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climb performance, which resulted in the main landing gear contacting a 10 ft tall sugarcane crop off the end of the runway. The airplane continued to descend into the field where it landed hard on the right main landing gear and came to rest in a nose down attitude. The right wing sustained substantial damage during the accident. The pilot did not report any mechanical anomalies with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation during the flight. Probable Cause and Findings — The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be: The pilot’s inadequate compensation for a gusting wind during takeoff.

NTSB Identification: CEN21LA348 Date: July 30, 2021 Location: Merry, NE Aircraft: ROBINSON HELICOPTER CO R66 Injuries: Serious The pilot reported that while cresting a hill at the end of a field during an aerial application pass, the helicopter’s skids struck power lines and subsequently impacted terrain. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the fuselage, tail boom, and rotors. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operations. The pilot reported that the aerial application pass was over rolling hills with terrain elevation changes of about 300 ft. and that could not see

the end of the field where the power lines were because of the hill. When he crested the hill and saw the powerlines at eye-level, he attempted to climb over the power lines, but the skids struck the top static wire. Probable Cause and Findings — The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be: The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from a wire during a low-level aerial application flight.

NTSB Identification: WPR21LA310 Date: July 30, 2021 Location: Fort Sumner, NM Aircraft: AIR TRACTOR INC AT-802A Injuries: Serious The pilot reported that, while maneuvering over a field for the aerial application flight, the airplane’s wing struck a windmill that he did not see. The airplane subsequently collided with terrain and a postimpact fire ensued, which destroyed the airplane. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. Probable Cause and Findings — The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be: The pilot’s failure to maintain adequate clearance from a windmill while maneuvering during an aerial application flight.

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INTERNATIONAL

From Generation to Generation - Aero Agrícola Rondon By Lucas Zanoni Gastão Lourenço de Lima founded Aero Agrícola Rondon in 1982 in Tangará da Serra in the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso. The company was one of the first agricultural aviation spraying companies in Brazil and is today operating as one of the largest aero-agricultural and aerial firefighting companies in the country, now run with the support of the third generation of the Lima family. Raised in the Brazilian countryside, Gastão Lourenço de Lima moved with his family to Francisco Beltrão in the state of Paraná, south of Brazil in 1963, when he was 17 years old. Upon arriving in the city, he began work as a guard at an airport and performed maintenance and aircraft cleaning. While working at the airport, he started his journey towards becoming a pilot. With few possessions, he studied the books of friends and traded his services as payment for flight hours. After four attempts, he finally passed his pilot check-ride. Gastão then went to work for the entrepreneur Ageu Fogliatto, a landowner in the Tangará da Serra region in A 36 | agairupdate.com

Mato Grosso. Knowing the region, Gastão soon realized the need for air services in the area, which, at the time, did not even have an airport. A few years later, Gastão moved with his wife and his sons, Danilo and Deomar, to the area and purchased an airplane to start an air taxi service that provided regional transportation. As local road infrastructure in the region increased in both number and quality, the demand for flights decreased, forcing Gastão to look at other service areas, eventually settling on providing aerial application services. The company now has 12 aircraft that provide aerial application services for sugarcane and grain crops, providing aerial firefighting services during crop offseason, and providing maintenance services for other operators in the region. Currently, Aero Agrícola Rondón has 45 employees that still, to this day, include children of pioneer Gastão, who died in 2004. The company fleet consists of six Air Tractors and six Embraer Ipanema aircraft that service the cities and regions of Mato Grosso, Tocantins, Minas Gerais, São Paulo, and Bahia in Brazil. ➤

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INTERNATIONAL

In 2013, Rondon was the first to install the Zanoni manufactured hydraulic gate system. Together with Serrana, and today Aero Agrícola, Rondon continues to be one of the leading companies in the protection of the Brazilian Pantanal and provides Civil Defense through aerial firefighting in the state of Mato Grosso. Rondon also provides aerial firefighting services in Minas Gerais, in the Southeast of Brazilprotecting both public and private environmental reserves. Luan Lima, son of Gastão and currently responsible for coordinating the operations of the company, in the details of the operations of 2021 in the Pantanal: "This year, we attended to the two regions with very poor infrastructure, which required very complex logistics. In one of them, our support trucks needed a special adaptation to reach the base of operations due to the bad state of the roads. In another region, a bridge was damaged that gave access to the support farm, and we had to reconfigure all our flight operations. To face these challenges, the operator must know the region where he is operating well because the working conditions change daily in aerial application and firefighting. Every year we are gaining more experience and specializing in our work in the Pantanal. The results have improved more and more,” said Luan Lima, son of Gastão and current head of operations for Aero Agrícola Rondon.

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The main regions served by Rondon this year were Paiol, near the border between Brazil and Bolivia, and Pixaim, in the center of the marshy zone of Mato Grosso. In the latter, they contributed to the protection of the Encontro das Águas State Park, the biggest jaguar sanctuary in the world, which had been badly affected by the fires of the past year. In addition to the work on environmental reserves, Luan is optimistic about the growth of demand for services in the private sector. “We have seen more and more interest from rural producers in fighting fire. The indigenous residents appreciate aerial firefighting as an efficient tool helping to protect crops, in addition to the spray applications. Las Algodones also sought to use aircraft to protect their cargo. We have been active in the fight against fires in natural reserves on farms [every farmer in Brazil must maintain an environmental protection area on his property] and also in residential areas”. From generation to generation, the Lima family has contributed to the evolution of the Pantanal region. The work of the pioneer Gastão Lourenço de Lima paved the way for local aviation, was complemented by his children with the consolidation of the agro-industry as the third generation of the family now steps in to assist through aerial application and aerial firefighting in the protection of the environment throughout Brazil.

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agairupdate.com | A 39

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A 40 | agairupdate.com

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has them! Limited Editions Signed & Numbered 1/100 $60.00 each, plus S&H To Order Call 478-987-2250 or Fax to 478-352-0025 Postage & Handling $12.00 U.S. and Western Hemisphere. All other countries vary. U.S. money order or check on U.S. bank, Visa or Mastercard accepted.

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Want to see more photos of the airplane? Quickly view ads online by scanning the QR code with your phone! Open the Camera app on iOS and Android and focus on code. Order your Turbine Ag Cat Pen and Ink Drawing from our DeSpain Collection today for only $59.99plus S&H. Call 478-987-2250

Aircraft - Ag Cat

1971 G164A, N7983 Geared 1340, 770 SMOH, 190 since Covington tear down, power section replacement. 190 since prop SOH and AD compliance. 24V alternator, strobes, smoker, flagger, SATLOC lite GPS, chip detector, electric fan brake, RH boom shutoff, spreader, extended metalized wings, 80-gallon bottom load fuel, 330-gallon hopper, Garmin com SL40 radio, new 29‚ tires, new fabric tail. $100K Call Kevin Leyva 509-6412079 with questions.

1978 Ag Cat G-164B For Sale, TTAF: 13810, ETSOH: 1029 Engine Time Since IRAN: 117 PTSOH: 117, Prop overhauled 8/2019. Last Annual:10/21. All tail surfaces recovered 3-15-18 at 13598. New horizontal stab. Frame installed at recover. Geared P&W 1340 with 23D40 prop. Weath Aero pump fan. SATLOC Lite Star II GPS. 325-gallon hopper. CP spray nozzles. Sale includes dry spreaders and some spares. $95K Call Bill Oberli at 330-769-2893, email: woberli@neo.rr.com For sale: Nearly finished project - Ag Cat #3, Includes 0 since overhaul R985, Hamilton standard prop, reconditioned tank, new fabric and paint. $50,000 OBO Pics available upon request. Call 605-830-0982

1976 Ag Cat G-164B, Tulsa Aircraft Engine, 8067 TT Airframe, 134 SMOH, 651 SPOH, 120 Gallon Bottom Load Fuel, 330 Gallon Hopper, Air Conditioning, SATLOC Bantam GPS, Crop Hawk, Flagger, Spreader, Smoker, Right Boom Shutoff. $135K 308-889-3481

1974 Ag Cat G164A with 9059 total time, 2930 since Hershey rebuild. Pratt and Whitney Geared 1340 1380 SMOH. Hamilton Standard 23D40 3 blade hydrostatic propeller. Aircraft features sealed cockpit, metal wings with Hershey tips, 335 gallon hopper, 115 gallon fuel system with bottom load port, stainless steel belly and booms, and aluminum spreader. Equipped with a SATLOC M3 touch screen, smoker, and flagger. Annual due 4/22. Price reduced to $65,000 Aircraft is located at KHSG, Thermopolis, WY. Please call Steve at 307-277-3822 or Nathan at 307-921-8579

A-Model Show Cat. 4000 TTAF. 1500 SMOH. 1340 with 12D-40 Ag-100 prop. Highly modified for banner towing and sky writing. High volume smoker, VG’s, stall strips, banner tow, radio, all mods are stc‚Äôd. Could easily be converted back to sprayer or made into a two holer. $37,500. Call Airplane Services, Inc 850-380-6091

1975 Ag Cat G-164B, N8834H R1340, TT 7266+ SMOH 227+ TT3653+ Super clean beautiful Ag-cat. SATLOC Bantam Intelliflow, 114 long range fuel, Kawak Throttle Quadrant, Collins A/C, 330 gal hopper, Smoker Sys, New tires, New Comm radio, bottom fuel and load connections. Right boom shutoff, Raised wing kit, Heavy Gear, Dry Spreader. Everything you would want, ready for work. Proud build from Sky Tractor, A joy to fly, You will not find another like it. $205K Call Kory 580-884-0446 Get Serious About Selling Classifieds Starting at $19.99 478-987-2250. Fax: 478-352-0025.

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. $250K out of annual or $280K with annual. Call 509-520-8267 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/ Ag Cats In Progress - S/N 526B S&R TPE331-6 FatCat 515-gal/126-fuel, Hi&Heavy, TST, 41” TL DAF, New Prop $249K (+engine repair). S/N 566B AgJet TPE331-Turbo SB+ 400-gal/120-fuel, Hi&Heavy, TST, 25/38” TL DAF, New Prop/Your Engine, $335K. S/N 349B Mills PT6-Turbo B, 350-gal/115-fuel, TST, New Prop/Your Engine, $225K. All LOOK & PERFORM LIKE NEW! 870-886-2418/2489F 870-759-1692 Cell. AgCat Sales & Service since 1971. frank.kelley@ag-cat.com SALE PENDING: Better’n NEW 450 Ag Cat! Total “Ground-up” Restoration! Loads of Up-Grades. “B” Cabin, hopper, 67 fuel, TL Gate, Fly Tips, SATLOC BANTAM GPS. Best “450” performer EVER! Ready for another 50-years of Reliable, Economical, Safe Service. $215K invested, $145K Steals her! Ag cat Sales/Service since 1971. 870886-2418/2489F 870-759-1692 Cell. frank.kelley@ag-cat.com SALE PENDING: Export Special: G164A+, Fresh AmAg REPAIR w/ factory jigged frames, New 335-Hopper, Ext’d/Metal Wings, 80-fuel, 24V w/Strobes, E-Servo, Hybrid Combo, Ready for 1000 hr. service-run. $59K & Your R985/R1340 E&P. CofaW4Ex included. Flyaway or your container. AgCat Sales/Services since 1971, 870-886-2418/2489 Fax, 870-7591692 Cell. frank.kelley@ag-cat.com Special “Pair” Pricing for (2) 2021 Super A+600 Queen Cats. 350 Hopper, H-V TLand Combos, 80-Fuel, B-Cabins, TST, Zero AF & E&P! Be smart, fly safe, do better work! Bank on 4-wings! List $269K, reduced to $189K each. Ag Cat Sales and Service since 1971. 8702418/2489F frank.kelley@ag-cat.com

Order your B Model Ag Cat Pen and Ink Drawing From our DeSpain Collection today for $59.99. plus S&H. Call 478987-2250

Aircraft - Air Tractor AT-301

1984 AT-301, TTAF 7791, Engine AN-2, 408 SMOH Covington, 4286 remaining spar cap, electric AT fan brake, Smoker, Flagger, AirStar II, dropped stainless booms, CP09-03 nozzles, right boom shutoff, no damage history, prop Hydromatic HSP 23D40-311 408 SOH, exhaust rebuilt 2020, windshield washer, well maintained Northern aircraft. $97,500 Chuck 320-760-0713

1981 AT-301, N2367C, S/N: 301-0412, 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: ZP-104037, 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. $125K Call Neal Aircraft at 806-828-5892 1986 AT-301, R-1340 geared engine, 600 hrs since Covington OH, Bantam GPS, CP’s. Farm Air Inc. For more information call 309-759-4826 or email hcurless@farmairinc.com Best Classified Buy In The Industry. Read By More Ag Pilots Than Any Other Publication. Classifieds Starting at $19.99 478-987-2250. Fax: 478-352-0025.

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CLASSIFIEDS

AT-402

AT-501

Order your AT-502 Pen and Ink Drawing from our DeSpain Collection today for only $59.99 plus S&H. Call 478-987-2250

AT-602 1988 AT-301, N69WN, TTAF 8900.0, P&W R-1340 SMOH 370.0, Overhaul by Younkin, Hamilton Standard Prop SPOH 530, 320 Gal Hopper, AgPilot X GPS, Flow Control, Smoker, SS Boom, A/C, VG’s, Lane Electric Brake, Bottom Load Fuel, 25 inch gate, 2 each spreaders. Mid-Continent Aircraft, Hayti, MO, 800-325-0885 www.midcont.net

1983 AT-301, N31580, TTAF 9679.2, P&W R-1340 Geared TTE 550.0, 350 Gallon Hopper, Bantam GPS w/G4 Light Bar, IntelliFlow, SS Boom, CP03 Nozzles, Smoker, A/C, Bottom Load Fuel, New Side Windows. Call Mid-Continent Aircraft, Hayti, MO, 800-325-0885 www.midcont.net

2014 AT-402B, PT6A-34AG, TTAF:2430, TTE:26,331.5, ETSOH: 6,437.5, Time since Light OH by Covington 2377. SATLOC GPS w/flow control, Reabe hopper gauge, Lane electric brake and fan, Smoker. $680K Call 785-821-2621

1991 AT-402, TTAF 13783.9 hrs., TTE 10,886.6, Equipped with SATLOC Bantam with Flow Control, Harbour Air Conditioner, Kawak Quadrant, Single Point Fuel, Wing Spars due at 17738.1 TT. $275K Contact John Lott at Souther Field Aviation, Inc. Friend of Owner. 229-924-2813

1987 AT-501, N7314Q, Walter conversion, 500 gals, side fuel, MVP 50 engine monitor, 7416 TTAF, 521 TTE, Lots of extras. Minnesota plane. Call Jon at 320-760-5075

AT-502

1995 AT-502B, N6110Y, Current Hobbs:1722.9, Current Total Time: 11,722.9, Current Extensive annual inspection completed: 2/2/2021, New landing gear springs, Engine: PWC PT6A15AG, Engine Total time: 11,722.9, 600 hours since FCU overhauled, hot section inspection, starter overhaul and wet spline conversion, Propeller: 1200 hours since IRAN. $335,000 Call Brent Carpenter 870-930-8285

2008 AT-602, TTAF 10,066, 250 Time on major overhaul PT6-65 motor from Prime Turbines, 0 hours since Prop IRAN, G4 Hemisphere, Hydraulic gate and spray valve, quick start, 3” loading valve, fuel connects both sides, ADSB-OUT, Altimeter laser, Booms, Spreader, ready to sell at end of the season. 1 YR or 500 HR WARRANTY FROM PRIME TURBINES! Fresh annual just completed and ready to work. Reduced to $660K, Negotiable. Kevin Jones, Tunica Air, Inc. 662-363-1461 Best Classified Buy In The Industry. Read By More Ag Pilots Than Any Other Publication. Classifieds Starting at $19.99 478-987-2250. Fax: 478-352-0025.

THE LATEST IN GLOBAL AGRICULTURAL AVIATION NEWS SUBSCRIBE TODAY! A 42 | agairupdate.com

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agairupdate.com | A 43

CLASSIFIEDS

1998 AT-602, 8765 TT, 360 SHOT by Prime Turbines PT6-60AG, Prop 1250 TT w/New Blades, 4000 hrs. left on spar, SATLOC M3 w/ Flow Control, Wingman, L7 Light bar, Shadin Fuel Flow, Stainless Booms w/ CP-09 Nozzles, 210 Gal Fuel. Spreader included. Annual Due May 2022. $425K 830-900-2037

AT-802

2012 AT-802 For Sale in Florida, 4,555 Total Hours Airframe and Engine, 437.5 hours since HSI by RT Turbines, new CT blades at HSI, Wingman System STC, SATLOC G4 Intellistar GPS w/flow control, VG’s, Fast Start 48 Volt cranking system, all US history, located in Stuart Florida, and ready to go to work. Please call 772-220-1700 for further details. Brent Martin brent@jetsalesgroup.com

1999 AT-802A PT6-65, N9037N, TTAF 9100, TTE 7598, SATLOC G4, Intelliflow, Transland 7 1/2” gate (new 2019), New Wings (7656 hrs), New Paint 2019, New Main Gear 2019, Load Hawg, Kawak Throttle Quadrant, AM Safe Air Bags, Single Point Fuel, Laser Altimeter, LED Nose Lights. Sale will include fresh annual and fresh hot section. $625k Contact Darin at 870-930-4200

1995 AT-802A, TTAF: 11,500, Fresh Annual, West Texas and Colorado based since new. 480 hrs. since new gear, 0 SHSI, 0 SPOH, G4 SATLOC w/flow control, Lane fan and brake, single point fuel, and L7 lightbar. $580K Call Neal Aircraft at 806-8285892 for more information.

A 44 | agairupdate.com

2004 AT-802A, N419FF, Current total time 4518.4, Current annual inspection completed 2-25-2021, Engine: PT6A-67AG, Engine total time: 5434.1, 1800 hours since engine overhaul, 10 hours since hot section inspection, engine had new segments and new CT blades installed at hot section. Price: $875K Contact Brent Carpenter 870-930-8285

2000 AT-802 Dual Cockpit SN100, 7300 TTAE, night work lights, SS booms, CP nozzles, 650 hrs left on wings, 1100 since hot, G4 SATLOC, all new A/C system, compressor, and hoses, MVP 50. Currently working. Annual due 3/22. Asking $435,000. Call 602-377-2416

2012 AT-802A, Price Reduced, New Aircraft is on the way! Total time 5680. Replaced Three Engine Isolators. Installed new Torque Gauge. Overhauled Starter. Complete 100 Hour. Removed lefthand fuel gauge and sealed glass also calibrated fuel system. Painted all three colors on leading edges. Replaced brake pads on both sides. Replaced Flap Torque tube. Installed new wet and dry boots in the middle belly. Removed Aft Belly soda blasted all corrosion. Primed and painted. O/H L/H Horizontal with all new ribs and skins blasted spars and primed and painted. Rebuilt lower rudder, primed and painted all three colors. Sandblasted fuselage from condenser box the tail primed and painted. Blasted and powder coated tail gear and horizontal struts. O/H tail wheel. Replaced R/H main tire. Replaced LED nose light lens. Replaced Aftmost Turtle Deck skin. Replaced all elevator trim bushings. CT disk blade stretch test completed by Prime Turbines - all good. Complied with all A/D‚Äôs. Price reduced to $700K Call David Glover, Managing Member at 870-501-1136

2006 AT-802 -67AG Total Time: 6800, Available November or December, New Paint, Annual In Jan. 2021, New Stage 2 PT Blades, SATLOC G4, Smoker, Wingman, Side Load Fuel, 10” Deep Throat Spreader, Vondran Controller, Hydraulic 10” Door, Flow Control, Prop one season, ADSB In and Out. Extensive fresh annual and inspection are complete. Currently in paint shop getting painted in Mena, AR. $740,000 Call 501-366-5105

1998 AT-802A, N5094H, TTAE 12152.6, PT6A-65AG, Hartzell Propeller 2000.0 SPOH, Reabe digital hopper quantity & spray boom pressure, E-TEC Inc. fast start system, Comm radio, Hemisphere G4 GPS, Right side boom shut off, Smoker, Hydraulic gate A/C, Wipaire vortex generators, Wingman, Annual 1/10/21. See spec sheet for details. Mid-Continent Aircraft, Hayti, MO, 800-3250885 www.midcont.net

2000 AT-802A-0089, N804DG, Annual completed June 2021, 100 hours SHSI, 225 hours SMOH engine, 225 hours SMOH/SNEW long prop blades, 2018 extensive aircraft rebuild/new panels, 10” Vondran gate/no spreader, no spray system, no SATLOC. See spec sheet for complete rebuild list. Price reduced to $650K Call 409-656-5998

AT-802 Single & Dual Cockpit. PT6A-67F Engine (1600hp), Full avionics and instrumentation. Computerized FRDS Gen II Fire gate. Aircraft with very low use and flight hours. Call or email: +34 667 102 184, sales@airtractoreurope.com

Fire Boss, Single & Dual Cockpit. PT6A-67F Engine (1600hp), Full avionics and instrumentation. Computerized FRDS Gen II Fire gate. Aircraft with very low use and flight hours. Call or email: +34 667 102 184, sales@ airtractoreurope.com Order your AT-802 Pen and Ink Drawing from our DeSpain Collection today for only $59.99 plus S&H. Call 478-9872250

Aircraft - Cessna

Two 1975 Cessna A188B’s For $94,000 - One complete Cessna 188B with fresh annual and one for Parts - N4862R 1975 A188B IO520D, Serial #1880321T, TT4173, TSMOH 10, Prop TSOH 10, New Landing gear rebuild by Landing Gear Works. Stainless booms. See attached sheet for more detail. New engine, new prop ready to work the whole season! With a plane for spare parts! Complete plane will come with a fresh annual. $94,000 480-2254761

1976 Cessna A188B Ag Truck, CONT I0550, 3790 hrs TTAF, 1019 hrs SMOH, 155 hrs SIRAN, 475 hrs on new McCauley 3-Blade Prop. Extensive annual in 2018. Recent annual 8/2021, aircraft is ready to work. New landing gear, bolts, shims, breaks, rotors, bearings, tires, electrical components, etc. Equipped w/CP-11 Nozzles, spreader pan, DynaNav GPS. $110K 262-620-1010 1979 Cessna T188C Ag Husky, 10K TTSN, 420 SMOH, Bantam GPS/ flow, CP’s, super booms, VG’s, AC. For pricing and more information call 309-759-4646 or email hcurless@ farmairinc.com Get Serious About Selling Classifieds Starting at $19.99 478-987-2250. Fax: 478-352-0025.

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Aircraft - Piper

1979 Cessna Ag Husky for sale. 886 since major overhaul engine. 6950TT. 1482 since major on prop, spreader, and extra boom. No damage history. I‚Äôve been using it for the past 2 seasons and am ready to move up. Great flying airplane, recent annual. $94K For more information call Tucker at 605-840-1605

1972 Cessna 188 Ag Wagon, N21883, TT6350, 1740 SMOH, Prop165, stainless steel booms, SATLOC Lite 2, new leading edges, refurbished hopper, CP nozzles, owner flown since new. Good flying and fast! Current annual with sale. Call Kevin at 785-386-8875 Get Serious About Selling Classifieds Starting at $19.99 478-987-2250. Fax: 478-352-0025.

A 46 | agairupdate.com

1964 Cessna 310I, TT 5253, Continental IO-470U engines TSMOH LH 573 RH 249, McCauley props TSPOH LH 573 RH 670. Nice twin, true 6 seater & heavy hauler. It’s a clean northern airplane with no corrosion, new tires, new heater & fresh annual. Paint and interior are both prob a 5 out of 10. Basic radios. Would be interested in trade for Piper Cherokee 6, Saratoga, or Lance. $55,000 Call Tanner Sotvik at 701-520-0229 or 701-662-4416

1978 Cessna Ag Truck, 5832 TTAF, 625 TTE, 550 TT on prop, 8.50X10 Clevelands, GPS, field ready. Price reduced to $112,000. Call Chad Stuart, Airplane Services, Inc. Call 850-3360552

1978 PA-36-375 Brave, TT 2820, TTSMO 1060, 2000 TBO, 1260 remaining on spar, SATLOC M3, flow control, stainless plumbing, fuel tank foam replaced, electric fan clutch, Vortex generators, Comm radio, split spray booms, smoker, fresh extensive annual, hangared. Ready to work! $135K 281-450-0632 leave message or text.

1953 PA-18 Super Cub C90 Continental, TT 9365.6, SMOH 1158.1, hangar kept, no accidents, all original-no mods, good fabric, looks great. $65,000 Call Wes at 772-216-4881

1982 PA-36-375, N2386X AFTT-5147.1, ESMOH78.5, Prop SMOH1952(Iran-330), AFS Check Valves, CP11 Nozzles, Electric Fan Brake, Bantam w/Intelliflow. Trigg Com Radio, EI Tach & CHT/EGT, Smoker, Flagger. Wings Spars 2,862 hr left. Wing Center Section Due. I have a new one on order from Johnstons. Asking 150K if I complete AD or 130K AS IS to do the AD. May also consider trades for GA airplane. Contact 402-540-4610

1978 PA-36-300 Piper, N3787E, TTAF 45590, Lycoming Engine TIO-540, TTE 1851.0, Hartzell Propeller TT 1946.0, Spreader, Boom & Nozzles, 86 Gal Fuel, SATLOC GPS, Time left on wing spars 3656 hrs. Annual 4/1/21. See spec sheet for details. Make offer! Mid-Continent Aircraft, Hayti, MO, 800-325-0885 www.midcont.net

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Aircraft - Thrush

1981 Piper PA-36-375 Turbine Brave, PT6A-20 662 SMOH, 232 SHS, Prop TSO 542, TTAF 5722, 2382 remaining on wing spar, fresh annual, new SATLOC Bantam w/ IntelliFlow, Lane adjustable fan & brake, smoker, CP check valve nozzles, Nav/Strobe Instrument/ Landing and taxi lights. Very clean, great flying, great transition airplane. $275K, OBO For more information call 318-339-4747 or email lowgoflyers@gmail.com 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. $150,000 Call Sun Valley Aviation 956-421-4545

1976 PA 36 SUPER BRAVE 400 HP - 3965 Total Time, 66 since Overhaul engine, 66 since IRAN Prop, 4040 hours remaining on wing spar caps, 275 gal hopper, Agrinautics pump and fan, dropped streamlined booms with CP nozzles and check valves, 2” left side load, extended wings, 90 gal fuel with new fuel cells, crop hawk, automatic flagger, pistol grip, nav/strobe/ instrument/landing/taxi and night working lights, left entry step, good paint, tires and glass. Price reduced to $185K or OBO. Contact Johnston Aircraft Service at 559-686-1794, info@johnstonaircraft.com or visit our website at www.johnstonaircraft.com

1974 400 Gal Turbine Thrush, N5543X, Airframe only no engine. 8900 TT, new Century wings, 0 time prop, A/C, cool seat, 29” tires, springtail, fabric tail, paint in 2016. Asking $150K OBO Call Kent at 229-220-6343 or 229-524-1134 1992 Thrush S2R-G6, N449AT serial #G6-105, TTAF 6185, TTE since IRAN at CD Aviation 945 hrs., VG‚Äôs, night lights, 510 gal. hopper, A/C & heat, cool seat, Garmin GPS, smoker, right boom shutoff, long-range fuel tanks, comm radio, new spar caps installed 35 hrs. ago, recent prop overhaul by Maxwell Aircraft. Aircraft is in great condition, side load fuel, concord batteries, SATLOC M3 GPS, IntelliFlow control, SS boom hangers, booms and center section, CP11 TT nozzles, Lane fan on the pump, Reabe hopper gauge w/side display. $450K OBO Serious inquiries only! Call 701-489-3558

1976 Thrush S2R-G6, LIQUIDATION SALE!! EYE CATCHER! MONEY MAKER! AFTT 15,370, Engine TPE331, TT 5733, PROP 857, Extensive Logs, All AD’s complied. $185K Call 661-3019036 1974 400 Gal Turbine Thrush, N5543X, Airframe only no engine. 8900 TT, new Century wings, 0 time prop, A/C, cool seat, 29” tires, springtail, fabric tail, paint in 2016. Asking $150K OBO Call Kent at 229-220-6343 or 229-524-1134

Order your Clipped J3 Cub Pen and Ink Drawing from our DeSpain Collection today for only $59.99 plus S&H. Call 478-987-2250 Order your Piper Pawnee Pen and Ink Drawing from our DeSpain Collection today for only $59.99 plus S &H. Call 478-987-2250 Best Classified Buy In The Industry. Read By More Ag Pilots Than Any Other Publication. Classifieds Starting at $19.99 478-987-2250. Fax: 478-352-0025.

A 48 | agairupdate.com

1993 Thrush S2R-T34, N927BT, Current Hobbs: 6552.6, Current Total time: 13494.9, Wing lower spar caps replaced at 12,878.1, Engine: PT6A-T34, Time since overhaul: 6373.9, Engine Total Time: 23524.6. $315K Brent Carpenter 870-930-8285

1996 Thrush 510GR, Damn good flying machine! Got a bit of time on her but she still can haul a heavy load! She is a 26-year-old filly with a lot of spunk left in her! Easy to fly and flies well. If I didn’t have two other -6’S in the hangar she would not be for sale! She is guided by an AgNav Platinum, but I will let her go for $15,000 less and keep the Platinum! She will have a fresh annual in a few days with a fresh overhaul prop. Gearbox has 300 hrs. or so since level 3 overhaul. Call me 334-898-7772 “IF IT AIN’T MAKING NOISE IT’S JUST A TOY FOR THE BOYS!”

2013 S2R/T-34 Thrush, N3043V, TTAE 3244, Engine TT Since Hot Section 211.0, Prop SIRAN 211.0, SATLOC Bantam, Flow Control, A/C and Heat, Lane Electric Fan and Brake, VG’s, Smoker, CP11 Nozzles. The aircraft is in great condition. $660,000 Call 402-366-4706

2022 Thrush 510P, Make offer! Mid-Continent Aircraft, Hayti, MO, 800-325-0885 www.midcont.net

1978 S2R-T34 Thrush, N4009J, TTAF 19,811.85, Walter’s Engine M601E11A, TTE 3792.0, TSOH 4985.0, Overhauled by Prime Turbines, Smoker, VG’s, Single-point fuel, Aileron Servo, Winglet, Zee A/C, 500 Gal Hopper, 190 Gal fuel, 12,173.9 TT Wing spars replaced. Annual 5/14/21 See spec sheet for details. Mid-Continent Aircraft, Hayti, MO, 800-3250885 www.midcont.net

1978 Ayers Thrush S2R-600, N4001X, TTAF 13,066.9, Walker Engine M601E11A, TTE 5365, TTSOH 2679.8, Bantam GPS, smoker, Bottom load fuel, Vortex Generators, 190 Gal fuel, Wing extension installed, Weather tail, Zee A/C & Heat. Annual 7/2/21 See spec sheet for details. Mid-Continent Aircraft, Hayti, MO, 800-325-0885 www.midcont.net

2016 Thrush 510G - Airframe/Engine/Prop Total Time (Approx.) 2700. Equipped with a GE H80 (800 SHP) turboprop engine; Hartzell four-blade, reversible, constant-speed propeller; 510-gallon spray system with 41-inch stainless steel gatebox for dry applications and emergency liquid dump capabilities; MVP-50T glass panel display, two-inch stainless steel spray system; three-inch side loader; streamlined aluminum booms; wingtip navigation and strobe lights; cockpit lighting; 228-gallon fuel system; windshield wiper and washer; 29-inchhigh flotation tires and wheels with dual-caliper Cleveland brakes; and Zee air conditioner and cabin heat. OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT: AG pilot X GPS with flow control, Hatfield Single point fuel, Aluminum Booms, Leading Edge LED Lights, Comm Radio, Artificial Horizon, Cockpit Fire Extinguisher, Smoker, Hopper Rinse, Lane Electric Fan Brake, Vortex Generators, ASU Night vision certified aircraft. Call for price. ASI JET is a Factory Authorized Thrush Dealer, Service Center, and Parts distributor. Specializing in New and Used aircraft sales, Please Call ASI Jet Sales at 952-941-6255 for more information!

1975 S2R Thrush, TT-6979, SMOH-678, New brakes, New Calibers, Spreader, LiteStar II GPS, Several spare parts, and a drum of oil that will go with it. Currently being used to finish up the season. $72,000 Delivery is available. Any questions call or text Kevin at 478-609-1300

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agairupdate.com | A 49

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Aircraft - Other

2004 Thrush 550, TTAF 8093, with PT6-60AG 0 shot, 0 time fuel control, Bleed valve, and High pressure pump, 0 SMOH prop, Hyd. gate box, SATLOC G4, booms and spreader. Sale with fresh annual. $420,000 Call 979-257-6695

1995 Thrush S2R, TT 11,195.4, PT6A-34 TSO 0.0, Wings 24,000 hrs remaining, New 4 blade propeller, Power intake w/quick change filter, SATLOC w/G4 screen, L7 Light bar, Extended mount, Intelliflow, A/C, Smoker, Load Hawg, Lane Electric Brake, Fan, Spring Tail Wheel w/ 2‚ extension, Metal tail, Emergency hopper shut off, Booms & spray system, Bottom load fuel, Bottom load feed, New Paint, Fresh annual. Currently under lease but will be available mid August. $625K Call Turbines Inc at 812-877-2587 or email peg@turbinesinc.com

2013 Thrush S2R-H80, N3046N, TTAE 3600, Load Hawg, VG’s, Bottom Fuel/Dual Load, IntelliFlow w/Smart Pump, Leading Edge Lights, SS Booms, Hopper Rinse, Bantam, Smoker Spreader w/ Kicker Plate, CP’s, G4 Intelliflow, MVP 50T Glass Panel. See spec sheet for details. Make offer, very motivated! Mid-Continent Aircraft, Hayti, MO, 800-325-0885 www. midcont.net Best Classified Buy In The Industry. Read By More Ag Pilots Than Any Other Publication. Classifieds Starting at $19.99 478-987-2250. Fax: 478-352-0025.

A 50 | agairupdate.com

1996 S2R-G1 Thrush, N2237D, TTAF 9688.0, Super-6 TPE331-6, TSCAM-4928, TSHSI-0, All engine work done by TAE (Ag Air Turbines), Hatfield bottom load fuel, A/C Vortex generators, New SATLOC Bantam, Flow Control, SS Spray System, AFS check vales, CP nozzles, Agrinautics pump, Lane electric brake, Aircraft radios, Fresh Eddie Current. Very clean aircraft! Mid-Continent Aircraft, Hayti, MO, 800-325-0885 www.midcont.net

2006 Beech G-36 Bonanza, 880 Hours since new, Garmin 1000/WAAS, Factory Air, Leather. This airplane is like new. Price reduced to $550,000 Call Sun Valley Aviation, 956-421-4545 B1-A Callair Manufacturing Rights. Available now is the type certificate, drawings, jigs, tooling, aircraft parts, and property associated with this 300 gal Pratt and Whitney 985 powered sprayer. Start your own aircraft company or expand your line. Call for details. Airplane Services Inc. 850-675-1252, 850-380-7268, 850-380-6091.

Engine - Piston ONE REMAINING: Special R1340AN1/14B Offer: Immediate delivery. (2) Deluxe OHC Engines!!! $59K each, $115K for both! Allied Ag Cat 870886-2418/2489F 870-759-1692 Cell

Super nice, super clean, super low time Thrush 660P -67AG, DUAL COCKPIT-DUAL CONTROL, PT-6 powered work horse for sale! ONLY DUAL COCKPIT MODEL CURRENTLY AVAILABLE ON THE PLANET! Outstanding machine for crop spraying, fire suppression, and even patrolling purposes. How about FLIGHT TRAINING for any of the three? Can outfit for each purpose! Only 428 hours since new! Only 150 hrs. since hot section by Covington, and only 2 hrs. on Hartzell 115” 5 blade prop since overhaul! Get started now! Outfit and spray, firefight, patrol, or instruct, before the season begins! Call Kirby at 615-972-7423 or email k.totty@comcast.net Order your 510 Thrush Pen and Ink Drawing from our DeSpain Collection today for only $59.99 plus S&H. Call 478-987-2250 Order your Radial Thrush Pen and Ink Drawing from our DeSpain Collection today for only $59.99 plus S&H. Call 478-987-2250

Pratt & Whitney R-985 & R-1340 Engines in stock. All with new pistons installed. Overhauled by Aero Recip, Covington, Tulsa and Younkin. For more information call Sun Air Parts 661-2577708, Fax 661-257-7710 or email info@sunairparts.com 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 Sun Air Parts 661-257-7708, Fax 661-257-7710 or email info@sunairparts.com R1340-AN2 Airmotive Overhaul, New Pistons, mags, harness, carb, with warranty outright/exchange. Call Chester Roberts Supply Co. at 903-429-6805 R1340 Engine Overhaul, New Pistons, New bearings, mags, ignition harness, carb, with warranty outright/exchange. Call Chester Roberts Supply Co. at 903-429-6805

R-1340, Zero Time Since Overhaul By Covington, $80,000 Lane Aviation 888995-LANE / 281-342-5451 or FAX 281-232-5401

Engine - Turbine PT6A-34 PCE-RBO139 For Sale, TSN 2394.9 For pricing call Paul at 305825-2001 or email preeves@jsamiami. com PT6A-27/28 PCE-40613, TSO 1649. For pricing call Paul at 305-825-2001 or email preeves@jsamiami.com PT6-15AG For Sale, Fresh gear box, overhaul, 0 since hot section. Call Bill Kingrey for cycle times and price. 979257-6695 Turbo Cat Kit ready for installation this winter. Kit includes new firewall forward, Hartzell propeller, EI-MVP, custom built fiberglass cowlings and much more. We can supply a new PT6A15AG or -34AG for a great price with the kit. Includes a “Fly Safe - Transition Program” Contact ann@turbineconversions.com for pricing and additional details. Complete Engine Package! TPE331-6 Engine, 537 Since Cam, CD Aviation Hartzell Propeller HC-B3TN-5M/ 537 Since New, Starter Generator 23047-007, 25 Hours Since Overhaul, Beta Tube Included. $177,000 Call Lynn Johnson at 701-3605966 or 701-352-3700 (3) PT6A-34AG Engines For Sale, TSO’s 0.0. Visit our website for spec sheets. Or call or email Jay Streb at 812-877-2587, jay@turbinesinc.com PT6A-60AG, 6500 hours TT, Fresh Hot Section, O/H Fuel Control Unit, O/H Bleed Valve, O/H Starter Generator. $295,000 For more information call Bill Kingrey at 979-257-6695

Equipment - Booms

Order your Thrush 660 Pen and Ink Drawing from our DeSpain Collection today for only $59.99 plus S&H. Call 478-987-2250

R985-AN1-14B Tulsa Overhaul, New Pistons, Bosch mags. Ignition harness, carb, with warranty outright/exchange. Call Chester Roberts Supply Co. at 903-429-6805

NEW never used alm. 502 booms brass nozzles, Used 12 vane Breckinridge spreader, good shape. Misc. Ag Cat parts. All must go. Rich 870253-8242

Order your Dual Cockpit Thrush Pen and Ink Drawing from our DeSpain Collection today for only $59.99. plus S&H. Call 478-987-2250

Pratt and Whitney overhauled 1340 cylinders, carburetor, Ag cat spreader call David at 870-550-1664

Tsla Center Boom 59105 (AT401402) $1200. Please call Peg at Sky Tractor 1-800-437-5319

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agairupdate.com | A 51

CLASSIFIEDS For Sale - High quality Stainless Steel booms, pumps and nozzles! On the shelf and ready to ship. Contact mark@turbineconversions.com SUPERBOOMS, Thrush Servos; Maintenance on Ag & G.A. Aircraft Including Heavy Structural Repairs; Robinson Helicopter Service Center; Machining, Fabricating & Sheet Metal Gurus; Tri-State Aviation, ND 800642-5777 or tsa@tri-stateaviation. com www.tri-stateaviation.com

Equipment - Nozzles New Zanoni Equipment Atomizers in stock and ready to ship at Turbine Conversions, Ltd. High quality, all stainless steel, tested, proven and US operators are loving these atomizers. Contact Mark@turbineconversions. com for more info. www.turbineconversions.com CP09-3P nozzles (59) $50 each, CP04 Poly Check valve (68) $26 each, CP02 SS check valve (76) $80 each, CP09-3E (67) $80 each, 7‚ SS drops (30) $5.50 each. Please call Peg at Sky Tractor 1-800-437-5319 Newberg Electrostatic Spraying LLC is the exclusive distributor for Spectrum Electrostatic Spray Systems. Do more acres with better performance. Call Ed Newberg 320-848-2745. Serving northern US and Canada. Now STC’d for all 400 and 500 series Air Tractors.

Equipment - Parts Dispersal Equipment For Sale - 10-inch Transland hydraulic gate with Vondran controller. $15,000 Complete wingman for 502 or 602. $7500. Transland spreader part number #22537 $7500. Call Lynn Cary at 870-734-6064 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. $9,500 S.E.A.T. program is expanding. Pilot/ contractor training available. Call 530-345-9919 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. 3 Hatfield Fire Gates. Air Tractor, vented lids for a 502, Transland quick attach. Make a Reasonable offer. Call 204856-9422

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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 Sun Air Parts 661-2577708, Fax 661-257-7710 or email info@sunairparts.com 502B spray pump Agrinautics 38” Gate Strut Assembly and complete bottom installation ready to go (Electric brake) second 502B spray pump with all bottom installations (electric motor for fam feather) see pictures of both pumps. Note: they are used pumps. You have to pick it up. $3,900 870-930-5729

Equipment Spreaders Transland spreader 25‚ 9 vane stainless, slim line, like new. $1,500 USD Call 863-467-4000 10 Vane Transland spreader, new in box. $12,160.31. Contact Rick Stone at Southeastern Aircraft Sales & Service 800-441-2964 or mail@southeasternaircraft.com (2)Transland SS 22274 38‚ to 25‚ gate box adapters & 21966 Gate Boxes. $2500 Eachor $4000 for both plus shipping. Call 620-525-6712 TRANSLAND SS SWATHMASTER 25in, has brackets for 402B, Spreader Quick attach 23507, comes w/2 more center sections & 4 wings. $3000 OBO plus shipping. 620-525-6712 Transland 10 vane spreader for 38‚ gate, new, $11,000; Lane Aviation 281-342-5451 or FAX 281-232-5401

Equipment - Support Like new portable load pad suitable for an 802. Very little use. $20K For more information call 309-759-4826 or email hcurless@farmairinc.com 3‚ load, mix tank, fully contained and lockable, air compressor and storage complete ready to go. $19,600 For more information call 309-759-4826 or email hcurless@farmairinc.com

GPS - AgPilotX 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 Get Serious About Selling Classifieds Starting at $19.99 478-987-2250. Fax: 478-352-0025.

GPS - DynaNav Brand New Vektor LITE GPS systems. Ultimate navigation system at an affordable price. $7,500 View details on our website www.dynanav.com

GPS - SATLOC SATLOC G4 Navigation System - Compete used system with flow control. $9500 Call Doug at 262-620-1010 2 Year Old SATLOC G4 GPS System for sale, like new. Also have various used GPS systems. AG PILOTX DEALER. $13,000 Call Tanner J. Sotvik at DEVILS LAKE AERO SERVICE 701-5200229 or 701-662-4416 (2) SATLOC G4 GPS w/IntelliFlow. $14,000 each. Call Ed at 361-9477891 or 361-387-9090

Help Wanted Experienced 502 pilot needed for the 2022 season. This is a full-time position in NE Arkansas. Our season runs from March-October. Prefer someone with rice herbicide experience. Call or text 870450-5687 or 870-240-4069. Looking for PA 18 pilot for Eastern Oregon, low level wildlife work. Pay $38-$49/hr, possible openings: contractor, intermittent, or full-time seasonal (winter-spring). Commercial, instrument rating, 1,500 TT Contact Shane Koyle 541-805-0128 Shane.T.Koyle@usda.gov R44 Ag Helicopter pilot needed for corn run in Iowa. July and possibly some of August. Email qualifications to barnhill_ jim@yahoo.com Air Tractor 502 Pilot Needed - Some work in Tennessee and corn run in the Midwest. Housing is provided for the right person. June thru August employment available. Email resume and references to blindads@agairupdate. com Subject: ID#3586 Looking for an experienced pilot for a long-term seat with a well-established company. Will be flying a well-maintained 502, based in Rolla ND. Herbicide experience is required. Full benefits, including health insurance and 401K are offered. We are looking for a long-term pilot, not someone that moves every year. Please call Greg at 605-350-4536. 802 Seat Immediately Available Located in East Arkansas, mainly cotton but includes rice, corn, and beans. Herbicide experience is a must. All inquiries must include a resume and references. Please email inquiries to blindads@ agairupdate.com Subject: ID#3580

Experienced 502 pilot needed for the 2022 season. This is a full-time position in NE Arkansas. Our season runs from March-October. Prefer someone with rice herbicide experience. Call or text 870-450-5687 or 870-240-4069. Looking for a pilot and A&P for a seasonal or full-time position. Willing to train for banner towing, ag, and sightseeing business. East coast location. Call Robert at 410-251-6224 We currently have a seat open for a 502 pilot in northern Minnesota. The season runs from June 1 thru September 15th and consists of mostly fungicide and insecticide with some herbicide depending on how wet the year is. We run off a private strip as well as a couple of municipal airports. Call Tyson 435760-4093 for more details or questions. Thanks Mid Atlantic business looking to hire a full-time aerial applicator. Herbicide experience required. We offer guaranteed year-round pay, a full benefits package, including health, vision, dental, matching 401K, and life insurance. We operate well-maintained equipment. Experience is a must and all inquiries must include a resume. Email inquiries to blindads@agairupdate.com Subject: ID#3561 Looking for an AT-402 -34 pilot with turbine experience. The position starts in May and runs thru September. Involves traveling to different states. Call Rod for more details. 701-321-0767 Looking for Robinson R44 Pilot for the 2022 Spray Season. All work local, on-site housing provided in Grinnell, IA. Contact Brad Iverson at 641-990-1937 Helicopter and/or multi-rated pilot needed for Southeast operation. Experienced preferred. Email resume and references to blindads@agairupdate.com Subject: ID#3549 Midwest operation looking for pilots for the 2022 spray season. Turbine rated is required for this position. Must have a great work ethic. Email resume and references to blindads@agairupdate. com Subject: ID #3547 Large Midwest operation looking for AT-502, AT-802, and -42 510 Thrush pilots for the 2022 season. Pilots must have 500 hours of Turbine Ag time. Also, Multi-engine turbo prob experience would be a bonus to fly our Piper Cheyenne for business trips throughout the year. Slobs and princesses need not apply, only hardworking pilots with a good work ethic. No time to babysit! Email resume and references to blindads@ agairupdate.com Subject: ID#3540

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agairupdate.com | A 53

CLASSIFIEDS Well established company in Ohio looking for a long-term experienced AT-402 pilot - 2022 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 419235-4182

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Professional Agricultural Turbine Spray Pilots - Western Canadian Aerial Ltd. requires Professional Agricultural Turbine Spray Pilots for the 2022 Spray Season. Job duties will involve completing aerial applications with our fleet of Air Tractors 402, 502, 504, and 602 to areas across Manitoba as well as other prairie provinces. Possibility of forestry work depending on pilot experience. Anticipated Start Date: May 1, 2022, thru October 1, 2022 For education requirements, wage/salary and benifits go to http://classifieds.agairupdate.com/details.php?id=3534 Email resumes including references to chiefpilot@wcaerial.com. Only applicants that meet all requirements will be contacted. Western Canadian Aerial Ltd. Box 1257 Minnedosa, MB R0J 1E0 Office: 204-867-3147 Bighorn Airways, Inc. in Sheridan, WY is seeking an experienced ag pilot for our 2022 season and beyond. Our fleet includes two Air Tractor 402‚Äôs, a Bell 206B3 and a Bell 206L3. The ideal candidate would be qualified to make aerial applications in both a 402 and the Bell B3 and have 2 to 3 years of herbicide experience. Consideration would be given to a pilot with only helicopter experience. Preferably, this would be a year-round position compensated with a fixed salary plus 10% acreage commission although a seasonal position could be negotiated. We are open to all options. Final pay offering would be based on experience and your fit for our company. For more information go to http://classifieds.agairupdate. com/details.php?id=3530 Check out our website at www.bighornairways.com Please apply at:https:// bighornairwaysinc.bamboohr. com/jobs/view.php?id=36&source=aWQ9Ng%3D%3D Best Classified Buy In The Industry. Read By More Ag Pilots Than Any Other Publication. Classifieds Starting at $19.99 478-987-2250. Fax: 478-352-0025.

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Instructors. Instructors are 1099 contractors. Work is on a per student basis. 1-3 day courses and paid by the day. Work one on one with the students. Classroom and simulator instruction. Days are 9-5 with no weekends. Lodging fees are covered for instructors Flight instructor certificate 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. Email resume and references to blindads@agairupdate. com Subject: ID#2710 Pilot Wanted for the 2022 Season: Kinniburgh Spray Service Ltd is in the Southern Alberta irrigation district. This means consistent acres for pilots year after year. Even on dry years like this year. We are looking for Air Tractor 502/802 Pilots for the 2022 season that are looking for a career in Agricultural and Forestry Aviation. We are willing to train the right candidate if they have the right attitude and show team enthusiasm. If you are interested in a consistent income and a fair work environment, then please contact us at 403-223-8245 or info@kinniburghspray.com Helicopter Pilot - Position available spraying in South Texas. April thru November. Room and Board provided with excellent pay. Call Cameron Hendrickson at 815-739-6813 or 815-384-5151 North Dakota aviation operation looking for an Experienced and ‚PASSIONATE‚ A&P/IA and pilot to fly/maintain/rebuild turbine Thrush and North American AT6 aircraft. Flying season runs from June through August. TPE-331 and sheet metal experience preferred. If you do not love aviation, and enjoy maintaining and flying airplanes, please do not apply. Email resume and references to Luke at luke@ltenterprisesnd.com Large midwest aerial application business looking for A&P and IA mechanics. Must have Air Tractor and PT6A experience. Starting salary is 70-80K if qualified. Must supply a resume and three references. Send resume and references to blindads@agairupdate.com, Subject: ID#2234 or fax to 478-352-0025

Due to expansion opportunities, we are looking for experienced 402- 802 pilots and an A&P. Must have knowledge of the latest GPS units. This is a full-time turbine position in the Upper Midwest. Historically from May to October. We spray a large variety of row crops. Mostly fungicides, insecticides, and micronutrients no herbicide work. We also do dry fertilizer and cover crops. We are looking for team players willing to grow with us. A pilot with a strong work ethic is desired. Also looking to add another A&P. Please reply with a resume to Agpilot502802@gmail.com IA and A&P mechanics needed. Call 870-295-6213 Salary depending on qualifications and experience.

Miscellaneous Used Items In Stock at Sky Tractor Agrinautics: 66450 Fan $250, 65113 Hyd. Pump $600, 65217 Pump $700. Transland: 21066 Hyd. Pump $800, Hub Assy Weath Aero $500, 21992. Pump & Lane Brake $1200. Lane: 111XLA Brake $700, 111FA Fan $550. Weath Aero: 5 Blade Fan, Transland $700. Call Peg at Sky Tractor 1-800-437-5319 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. Ag Cat tail spring A1590-1 $1200. Please call Peg at Sky Tractor 1-800437-5319 Christmas Trump Shirt - Short and Long Sleeve. Youth small through 4XL. Contact Storm Aeronautics at 402-3673213 or send email to parts@stormaeronatuics.com to place an order. Trump Shirts ‚Keeping Ag Aviation Great. Three different designs featuring an Ag Cat, Air Tractor and Thrush. Colors are Gray, Black, and Red. Sizes Range from Youth medium through 4XL. Shirts cost $25. Contact Storm Aeronautics at 402-367-3213 or send email to parts@stormaeronatuics.com to place an order. 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

Keep your drink hot or cold in this insulated 16oz Air Tractor Tervis Tumbler. $14.99 plus S&H Made in the USA, Makes a great gift. For more information call 478-987-2250 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 478-9872250 Specialty belt buckles, show your pride in style. $39.99 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 Business for sale in South Central Washington State. This has been a well-established, one airplane aerial application business for many decades at the same location. The area has diversified agriculture and great potential for expansion by the right person. Contact via email agpilot54@gmail.com

Parts - Airframe S2R Thrush wings with extended tips and Century Spars - low time. $50,000 Call 210-844-4074 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. Contact Guillermo at aravia@ aravia.com.ar call +54-3462-463488 or go to our website www.laviasa.com TCL 41” Variable Rate Gate with manual control for Thrush with 1 rotor available for immediate shipping. VRG delivers ultra low volume 2#/acre to 20#/acre in a variety of products from fine sand to coarse corn cob. Contact Mark at mark@turbineconversions.com for special pricing on this unit.

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agairupdate.com | A 55

CLASSIFIEDS AT-502B Wings, as removed from 2005 AT-502B, Long Spars, 2660 hrs remaining on spar caps, $25,000. Call Chad Stuart, Airplane Services, Inc. 850-380-6091 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 Ayres Thrush ‘Hoerner’ wing tips. Left and right, no damage. $500 for the pair. Call Gary at 530-345-9919 garyhendricksonn3n@gmail.com Blue anodized aluminum windshield washer replacement cap with handle. $65 Available online only at www. ambericandesigns.com Questions ambericandesignsllc@gmail.com Air Tractor Bolt In Step Extension - CNC cut anodized aluminum step extension that bolts into existing step for more footing and traction. $125 Available online only at www.ambericandesigns. com Questions - ambericandesignsllc@ gmail.com CNC cut anodized aluminum spray mirrors. $275 with mirror online only. $275 www.ambericandesigns.com Questions - ambericandesignsllc@ gmail.com Titanium Full Swivel Tail Wheel - Now approved and available for S2R 660 Thrush - full swivel tailwheel with Titanium Tail Spring. Durable, long life span, lighter weight option for Thrush owners. Contact ann@turbineconvesions.com for information and to reserve your production slot for this winter. www.turbineconversions.com 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 ann@turbineconversions.com or contact our favorite Thrush dealer for more information. www.turbineconversions.com Ag Cat Factory Frames - (All Models) fixture per¬≠fect, ready to install. All upgrades, hoppers, long fuel, hi-wings, struts/wires, all components, special hardware and dispersal equipment. AgCat Sales & Service since 1971. 870-886-2418/2489F, 870-759-1692 Cell, frank.kelley@ag-cat.com 1960 Piper Comanche Wings Complete with Gear, Paint Fair, No Hail damage. Also have fuselage. $9,000 Call Tanner J. Sotvik at DEVILS LAKE AERO SERVICE 701-520-0229 or 701-6624416

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Super “B” Ag-Cat Wings, fresh paint, metalized, big fuel. $50,000 Call Bill Kingrey at TURBINE YELLOWJACKET PARTNERS LLC. 979-257-6695 AT-402 airframe sandblasted, primed and painted. Comes with belly skin and Turtle deck. Also includes tail spring and tires. Includes tail but needs left elevator. $35,000 Call Bill Kingrey at TURBINE YELLOWJACKET PARTNERS LLC. 979-257-6695 Smokers/Driftfinders - Minimize your off target drift risk. FAA/PMA’d and STC’d for installation on most Agricultural aircraft. 44 years in business and over 6,200 units in service. For more information Please call Compro Aviation, Inc. 785-899-2294 or visit us on the web at www.comproaviation.com REBUILT 29” THRUSH LANDING GEAR IN STOCK & we can REPAIR / REBUILD yours to LIKE NEW STATUS. Johnston Aircraft Service, INC. 559686-1794 / Email parts@johnstonaircraft.com or visit our website at www. johnstonaircraft.com Tools for reaming attach bolts Wing Main (Centerwing to Outboard wing) attachment joints for Dromader M-18 per repair service bulletin #e/02.170/2000 Available for rent. Contact Ann at Turbine Conversions 616-837-9428 or email ann@turbineconversions.com

Parts - Engine Cleaning Hangar Out - AT-400 Engine Mount and Cowling. $10,000 Call 210844-4074 Cleaning Hangar Out - 502 Engine Mount & Air Box $3,500 Call 210844-4074 Cleaning Hangar Out - S2R Thrush Garrett Engine Mount and Cowling. $10,000 Call 210-844-4074 AgJet TPE331 SB+/SC+/FC+ Conversions - Installed or assembled Kits with Heavy Ring-Mods. Allied/AmAg Ag Cat Center 870-886-2418/2489F, 870-759-1692 Cell frank.kelley@ ag-cat.com Radial Parts: 2 Fiberglass AT Speed Rings, 1 THRUSH Speed Ring, 1 Radial engine mount with ring. Make offer. Cascade Aircraft Conversions. 509-6351212. info@cacaircraft.com 34 Cascade Inlet System. Firewall FWD for S2R Thrush. $35,000 Call Bruce’s Flying Service at 229-725-4150

Ground Support Engine Driven Transfer Pump, Zanoni Equipment’s all stainless steel construction paired with a Honda 13 HP motor. Special introductory pricing orders received by January 31, 2020. Contact Mark@turbineconversions.com for more info.

Parts - Other Cleaning Hangar Out - S2R Thrush Metal Tail - used. $20,000 Call 210844-4074 Cleaning Hangar Out - S2R Thrush Main Landing Gear $3,500 Call 210-844-4074 7.5” Transland Hydraulic Gate and Wingman. Used for 2 seasons. Removed professionally by Ag Air Maintenance at Corning Arkansas. Includes everything needed for immediate operations. $25,000 Call Damon at (920)219-0459 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 Sun Air Parts 661-2577708, Fax 661-257-7710 or email info@sunairparts.com 602 Wingman System. Call for Price: 870-672-2089 Air Tractor Gen 2 Firegate, Complete system, Fairings, wire-harness. Call For Price: 870-672-2089 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 Cockpit adjustable flow control kit. Manual control or GPS variable rate ready. Integrates into existing hydraulic systems. More info at Kawak Aviation Technologies 541-385-5051 www. kawakaviation.com Thrush S2R STC battery retrofit kit. 300% longer battery service life. 200% faster starts. Battery replacement cost 25% of original. For more information call Kawak Aviation Technologies at 541-385-5051 or visit www.kawakaviation.com

Propellers AT-402/AT-502 3 Blade Propeller, new in box NOS. $39,900 FOB Ft. Pierce, FL. Contact Rick Stone at Southeastern Aircraft Sales & Service 800-441-2964 or mail@southeasternaircraft.com

Hamilton Standard 12D-40-6167-12 Propeller. 102” diameter, FAA approved for R-1340. $5,000 also Hamilton Standard 2D-30-6167-12 100” diameter. $4,500 Call 530-345-9919 12D40-6101-12 Propeller, Overhauled with 8130 Form. For more information call Chester Roberts Supply Co. at 903429-6805 Hamilton Standard Propeller 23D40 with 6511-12S Blades Overhauled Completely includes 8130-3 form. For more information call Chester Roberts Supply Co. at 903-429-6805 Hamilton Standard 22D40 Hydromatic Propeller 6533 blades overhauled complete with distributor valve and prop, Governor. For more information call Chester Roberts Supply Co. at 903429-6805 23D40 with New Blades 6511A-9 installed. Completely Overhauled Propeller. With 8130-3 form. For more information call Chester Roberts Supply Co. at 903-429-6805 QUALITY Propellers For Sale 33D50-6601A18 OHC...........$29,000 23D40-6601A19 OHO...........$28,500 22D40-6533A12 OHO...........$28,500 12D40-AG100-4S 375-SOH...$19,500 12D40-AG100-2 828-SOH.....$17,500 2D30-AG100-2 OHC..............$23,000 Call AmAg, 870-886-2418/2489F frank.kelley@ag-cat.com Hartzell Prop HC-B3T10-3D, Blades T10282N +4, Prop Assy, Buckhead, Spinner, OSTMOH Prop. $28,000 Call Bruce’s Flying Service at 229725-4150

Seat Wanted AG pilot (25+ years experience) seeks winter work in Jan/Feb/March and possibly April. A definite team player with excellent references. Looking for a professional operation with well-maintained equipment. 8,800 hrs total time, 7,800 AG, most in AT-502. No accidents, no claims. Will consider other opportunities as well. Thank you for your consideration. Please email all inquiries to 1spraypilot724@gmail.com or call 386-9635717, Cell 386-854-0761. Pilot Looking For Heli Seat - Bell 212, UH, Rangers, 500s, 133, 137, 135 AG. OAS Cardable, Extensive experience with mosquito Vector control. 40 years of ag pilot experience. Call Andy at 850686-2020 Best Classified Buy In The Industry. Read By More Ag Pilots Than Any Other Publication. Classifieds Starting at $19.99 478-987-2250. Fax: 478-352-0025.

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You have Agrinautics SPRAY PUMPS, VALVES AND STRAINERS But are they HARD ANODIZED TUFFCOAT?

WINGLETS

WE ARE YOUR SOURCE

GPS

POISON AERO TOWBAR

Authorized Thrush Distributor & FAA Repair Station

AgCraft Sales • Parts • Ag Insurance • Satloc Distributor & Repair Station

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Tuffcoat components are tool steel strong

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Non-stick surface for quick clean-out ALL AIRCRAFT MAKES SPECIALTY APPLICATION AVAILABLE FAA/PMA approved www.agrinautics.com 435-586-1200 • sales@agrinautics.com 1215 N. Airport Road • Cedar City, UT 84721

agairupdate.com | A 57

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International Advertising Index

Wanted to Buy - All models of Cessna 206, does not need to have an engine. If you have one sitting in your back field turn it into cash by emailing ann@ turbineconversions.com

Aero Innovations........................37A AeroLEDS.................................43A Ag-Nav, Inc.................................3A Agrinautics................................57A Air Repair, Inc.......................... 55A Air Tractor Inc.............................2A Aircraft Accessories of OK..........45A Airplane Services.......................40A American AgViation...................40A ASI Jet Sales, LLC.................... 57A Aviation Hose Shop....................57A Aviation Products Systems..........77A Cascade Aircraft Conversions .....39A CD Aviation.................................7A Corbet Scientific........................33A Covington Aircraft......................60A Desser Aerospace. ....................53A Dyna Nav Systems, Inc. ............19A Forest Protection Limited............33A Frost Flying...............................45A Insero.........................................9A Isolair, Inc.................................55A Jetset Airmotive Co., Inc........... 40A Johnston Aircraft Service............49A Kawak Aviation Technologies..... 39A Lane Aviation Inc..................47,53A M&M Air Service Inc..................40A Merit Apparel Company .............35A Micro AeroDynamics .................35A Micron Sprayers Limited............ 51A Mid - Continent Aircraft Corp..... 57A

Looking for an opportunity to move into a seat. I have good experience loading, having worked for a reputable operator in Southern Idaho for 10 months. Growing up on a ranch and working as a herdsman/cowboy as a working career, I understand long hours, little sleep, and hard work. I have my CDL with experience hauling cattle, flatbed, tanker, dump trucks with pups, and utilizing it with the spray operation. I can operate machinery efficiently, boom trucks, auger trucks, forklifts, telehandlers, etc. I can be trusted to run a load pad by myself and know the importance of checking chemical labels, amount of chemical, water source, fuel, etc. I have experience in dry and liquid work, am efficient in switching from dry to liquid and vice versa. We did a lot of government work and know what it takes to take the “show on the road” whether it be for dry or liquid, and making due loading off of remote strips. I can weld, have mechanical aptitude (would love to get my A&P), and learn quickly. The gentleman I worked for is very knowledgeable in the industry and passes that well to his employees, but I also know that there is a lot more for me to learn, and am eager to do so. I have my Single Engine Commercial Certificate with an instrument rating. I am sitting at 500+ hours with 150+ of that being tailwheel. I

currently own a Piper Pacer and am building time quickly. If you have any questions or interest, please reach out to me at 406-930-0800. A lot of time I don’t have service so please leave a voicemail and or a text and I will be sure to get back to you. 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

Service 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.

NEW PEN & INK DRAWING BY RICHARD C. DESPAIN

AT-401

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 PA-25/235 Single for Solo/ Dump/Spray. Private all in Tailwheel, Tailwheel Proficiency, and UpSet/ Spin recovery. Commercial Pilot and Instrument rating available. SATLOC Bantam, TracMap, & AgNav GPS. Ag Aviation Consultants for Ag Operation Certificate part 137. See videos at www.eaglevistas.com Eagle Vistas LLC 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. www.RigginFlightService. com (605)256-9774.

Vehicles Fertilizer Loader Truck - F350 fertilizer loader truck, steel bin and 10” tube. Cab rusted but dependable $5000 Call Dave at 509-520-8267

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

Orsmond Aerial Spray................49A Perfect Flight ...........................27A Portage Aircraft Specialties ........49A Pratt & Whitney Canada.............29A Preferred Airparts......................45A Prime Turbines..........................53A Prop Works...............................47A SATLOC....................................30A Schweiss Doors.........................40A Sky Tractor LLC.........................55A Southeastern Aircraft Sales.........43A Souther Field Aviation, Inc.........47A Spidertracks Lmt.......................43A Storm Aeronautics.....................51A TAE Aerospace USA...................25A Thrush Aircraft............................5A TracMap...................................22A Transland ............................21,23A Turbine Conversions LTD............51A Turbines, Inc.............................59A A 58 | agairupdate.com

Zanoni Equipamentos.................37A

1984 GMC Black Tank Truck, 4 compartment units for fuel in tank with pumps. Formerly Texaco engine 454, five speed transmission, 2 speed axle. $2,700. Buyer pick up item after sale. 979 219-9351

Wanted to Buy Pratt & Whitney Engine Cores, Engine Parts Inventories, Cylinders, Starters, Fuel Pumps and Boost Pumps. Call Sun Air Parts 661-257-7708, Fax 661-257-7710 or email info@ sunairparts.com

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agairupdate.com | A 59

Pratt & Whitney Canada Designated Overhaul Facility (DOF)

Specializing in the Maintenance and Overhaul of the PT6A, R985 & R-1340 Engine Series.

AgAir Update | March 2022

Articles inside

Craymer’s Counsel | Robert Craymer B1 Insights | National Agricultural Aviation Association B4 Regina’s Perspective | Regina Farmer B6 Low and Slow | Mabry I. Anderson B14 20 Years Ago | Thrash Aviation meets community PR challenge B34 Wing and a Prayer | Carlin Lawrence

From the Cockpit | Bill Lavender