This is a very upbeat time of year, despite all the negativism generated by COVID-19. Fall and spring are in the air, depending on which side of the equator that you live on. Those north of it, generally are glad to see another season come to a close. While those of you south of the equator are ramping up for the season. I can remember when both times of the year were exciting times, albeit for different reasons.
I know here at AgAir Update, it is a busy time preparing for upcoming trade shows, fall ag-aviation events (like the golf tournament in Arkansas), NAAA’s Ag Aviation Expo and of course, AgAir Update’s Hangar Party to be held Friday before the Ag Aviation Expo in Savannah. I look forward, more than you will ever know, to seeing each of you as Graham and I make the rounds this year.
Along with the many positive things happening in ag-aviation, Thrush Aircraft is aiming to certify two new Thrush Aircraft sometime in the latter part of this year. These two aircraft are going to make a mark within the industry; the PT6A-34AG-powered 510P2 and the PT6A-140AG-powered 510P2+. Be sure to read Graham’s article about these two phenomenal aircraft; “just what the doctor ordered”.
On a very sad note, the industry lost a young ag-pilot this past week. Although he was not flying ag at the time of his aviation accident, it is a great loss all the same. Needless to say, just because you have finished up a successful season with no incidents, the off-season is not the time to let down your guard, even if the plane you are flying is non-ag. Always be vigilant with any type of flying as it can be most unforgiving.
Every ag-pilot reading this editorial does not want to miss Ted Delange’s article about flying in the Region of Reverse Command. If you’ve not heard of this term before, it will be well worth the time it takes to read the article. All experienced ag-pilots will recognize this unhappy place, having been there many times. I remember well when I was operating a 1200 HP Serv-Aero Viper Thrush, the feeling of being in this region, or zone. The 1200 Viper was a very high-performance airplane with its light frame, rag tail and short wings. You could literally enter deep into the zone of Reverse Command and if you got “uncomfortable” simply push the throttle forward to fly out of it. I know you’ll enjoy Ted's article as he explains this phenomenon.
Until next month, Keep Turning…
