Aerial Applicator forum?

[mikenfl]

Hi,
I've been trying to find a forum related to agricultural aviation (commonly called crop dusting), but haven't had any success. If anyone knows of one, I'd greatly appreciate it if you could point me in the right direction. Thanks.
Mike Graham.

[Denny of Oakland]

Mike,

I don't know of or seen and web sites pertaining to crop dusting, however I happen to over see a couple of Part 137 operators. If there is any certain question you would like to have answered I would be glad to assist.

Denny of Oakand

[mikenfl]

Denny, Thanks for the reply. I'm giving some consideration to leaving my fairly secure job with the U.S. Postal Service, to move back into the world of professional aviation; specifically AG. (yes...I lost my mind a long time ago ) I'm curious how a potential employer would view a new AG school graduate with my (ahem) experience. My current stats are: 48 years old, former CFI SEL, less than 600 hrs. TT, 125 hrs. tailwheel, 390 hrs. PIC. Ok, here comes the good part....I haven't touched the controls of an airplane in 12 years.
I know I couldn't just step back in like I'd never been away; it would take quite a while to get myself back up to speed. But, if I did, and then went to a reputable AG school, how would you rate my chances of getting a seat? I didn't get out of flying because I didn't love it. That course change involved family and financial considerations which have since changed.
Anyway, your brutal honesty would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.
Mike

[Denny of Oakland]

Brutal honest! I hope you don't have a family you want to support because this is not the place to make money. You won't be able to get life insurance in case and it happens alot. There is little if any healtlh insurance, retirement plans, or sick days off. There are only a few places that use alot of Ag aircraft Northern California and the Southern states, do you happen to live in one of those areas? Second most Ag drivers have their A&P certificates to supplement their income working on the aircrat they fly and most of them are young. They fly during the summer months and mechanic work in the off season. This is a tough life.

I have only meet one pilot Southwest Airlines that worked his way up from Ag to ATP captain flying. I have to admit Ag flying is fun, but doesn't pay well. During the season you would be flying before sun up to dusk long hours, 7-days a week and lots of accidents. I have had to pick up a few bodies over the years because of weight and balance, engine failure and mostly piot error issues.

Not knowing how many years you have in the government system I would suggest keeping your government position fly on the side until you retire then you will have something to fall back on.

Having said all that not suggesting you shouldn't follow your dreams, I would visit several Ag shops. Here in Northern California there are several located in the Stockton, CA area that covers the Sacramento valley. They operate Ag Cats to CE-182's to helicopters. I have one in Willits, CA and he flies in Washington state during the summer season and work on aircraft during the winter. I would be more than happy to put you in contact with them for some first hand experience.

Denny of Oakland

[TEXXX46]

Hi Denny I was just searching on google about crop dusting and this site came up. Mikes question is eactly the question that I am asking. I would be so grateful to have those contacts that you offered him. I live in San Francisco and work as a union worker. I am wanting to change careers also and crop dusting has been my childhood dream. If you could put me in touch with someone to talk to about this I would greatly appreciate it. Thankyou

Sincerely,

Jerry

[Denny of Oakland]

I am currently out of the country of another week. But if you go to my web site and click on the hyper link and send me an e-mail. When I get back I will contact you next week. The web site is Welcome to StacheAir

Denny