The National Agricultural Aviation Association wrapped up its 49th convention and exhibition in Savannah last month. Like years before when the convention was held in Savannah, attendance records were broken and everyone I spoke with had a fabulous time. I know we stayed busy at the AgAir Update booth.
Friday night, prior to the convention, AgAir Update held its third Open House and Hangar Party in Perry, Georgia. This event, too, has grown each time. We served 225 plates of barbecue and some did not get to eat! We may have been short on food, but the beverages were plentiful. Additionally, Eddie Byrd’s band was fantastic, playing music from the ‘60s and ‘70s.
People from all over attended. We had guests from Canada, South Africa and Brazil, as well as from nearly every ag-aviation state. It was humbling to see the crowd.
I would like to thank Air Tractor, Souther Field Aviation and Thrush Aircraft for placing their aircraft on display during the hangar party. Air Tractor had its 502XP, AT-802 and AT-504 on hand. Souther Field Aviation had its Turbine Brave conversion for all to see and Thrush Aircraft had its 510G Switchback, 510G Summer Tour aircraft and 510P Dual Cockpit aircraft on display.
Having seven ag aircraft on display added much to the party. Many people arrived early in the afternoon and had the opportunity to view the aircraft, as well as talk with the pilots. The event allowed for a relaxed comrade where business was not the main topic of conversations.
NAAA will hold its 51st annual convention in Savannah in 2017. AgAir Update plans to have again its Open House and Hangar Party the Friday prior to the convention. I feel sure all that were at the last one will return and hope that those who did not make it, will start planning to attend the next one.
Graham and I will be attending multiple state trade shows throughout the U.S. in the coming months, as well as those in Latin America. I hope to see as many of you as possible, so please stop by AgAir Update’s booth. After more than 20 years traveling in Latin America for AgAir Update, it has finally become time for Graham to experience this culture. Beginning in 2016, he will be attending with me the various conventions and excursions into Latin America. Even though Latin American ag-pilots speak a different language than English, there are very little differences when it comes to ag-aviation.
As we enter into another year, I am wishing for everyone to have a safe, foremost, and profitable year in 2016. Until next month,
Keep Turning…
