In keeping with tradition, this issue looks back at the previous 12 issues and the phenomenal stories they told.
Each issue is highlighted, and a QR code follows the paragraph to read more about the particular cover story. The complete issues are also posted online. Some memorable stories, such as Rick Boardman from Nebraska and Lime Applications in New Zealand, were told. Then, the crowd-sourced photo issue brought together the best of the best in ag aviation photography.
But let's go back to the central theme of this editorial. A new year is a time to renew, review and reevaluate. What worked last year? What didn’t work last year? What are you planning on changing? What are you planning on improving?
What can you learn from any incidents that you experienced? Are their new systems to be implemented and new SOPs to utilize? The first of the year is an excellent time to answer those questions.
After many conversations with George Parker from Idaho, he finally submitted his first article to AgAir Update. If you know George, which I assume most do, you know not only does he have a wealth of knowledge on all things aviation-related, but he also has a unique gift to explain them. George has taken an unknown amount of man hours and developed a program he uses on his first-year pilots. The program is adopted from many sources, but the main focus is having a take-off “profile.” It’s exceptional information for both the new and experienced pilots. We are one of few aviation disciples that don’t have any type of training. Maybe it's time to reevaluate that.
January and February also bring the majority of the state and regional shows. This year, you can find AAU at all the staples - Louisiana, Texas and Arkansas, followed by the SEAF, New Mexico and eventually into Tri-States. We will also be in Montreal, Canada, for the combination of the CAAA Convention and the NAAA Board Meeting. It’s a busy two months, for sure. Please stop by the booths and give me your next story idea!
