ag pilots

[Dot_AK]

I've heard plenty of talk about airlines this, airlines that, but where/how do you learn to fly a cropduster? Or to dump the retardant on forest fires?

 

[dasmith]

do a search

do a search on "crop dusting" and then look at www.agflight.com who sells a $10k program that gets you 50 hours in little cubs and a few hours of air tractor time...

generally not an entry level job... perhaps PM avbug who is our resident master on your question, but do the search first

 

[toneal]

Go to google and do a search on "Avbug"

 

[bugchaser]

Like was mentioned above, do a search on this site. We have had this conversation several times in the last year. Basically, this industry is hard to break into unless you know someone who is willing to give you a chance to get started. It's the same catch 22 as most aspects of flying. If you are really serious about doing this kind of work, get out and talk to local operators, go to industry conventions, subscribe to insustry mags, get all the tailwheel time you can, and don't take no for an answer. You will hear that it can't be done many many times. There is always a way if you are willing to work hard enough for it.
If you have any specific questions I would be happy to try and answer them.

 

[ShinerBocknabtl]

Like the last guy said, it's hard to break into. Location plays a big role too. If you live in TX, OK, or Arkansas you probably have a better chance at rubbing elbows than if you live in....New York City.

Try to get a job as a loader, help out with the small maintenance stuff, look into getting your applicators licenses on the side (they do expire). Work your way up. Lots of info is available on AgPilot.com and AgAirUpdate with plenty of links.