Fred Ayres — National Agricultural Aviation Hall of Fame
Career Highlights
- Early Career:
- Began his spray business in Blakely, GA, in 1958 after flying for three years with Dothan Aviation in Dothan, AL.
- Operated one of the first fleets of Grumman Ag Cat aircraft, expanding to five planes by 1962.
- Partnership with Rockwell International:
- Marketed Rockwell agricultural aircraft, including the A-9 Sparrow, A9-B Quail, and S2R Thrush.
- Founded Ag Aero Distributors, Inc., in 1967, which became the largest distributor of Rockwell ag aircraft worldwide.
- Pilot Training School:
- Established an ag pilot training school at Commander Air Service in 1974.
- Training included 20 hours of dual instruction in a 450 Stearman and 30 hours of supervised solo in major ag aircraft.
- Technological Innovations:
- Revolutionized ag aircraft in 1973 by introducing the PT6A-34 turbine to the Thrush airframe.
- Developed a centrifugal filter system to ensure turbine survival in agricultural environments.
- Launched the Ayres Turbo Thrush in 1975, the first successful turboprop-powered ag aircraft globally.
- Business Expansion:
- Purchased the Albany Plant and its general aviation assets from Rockwell International in 1977.
- Expanded configurations for the Thrush, including extended wings, dual cockpits, and powerplant options ranging from 500 to 1230 HP.
Global Impact
- The Ayres Turbo Thrush is operational in over 71 countries.
- Ayres Corporation continues to innovate and lead in agricultural aviation.
Recognition
- Inducted into the National Agricultural Aviation Hall of Fame in 1997.
- Honored for his significant contributions to agricultural aviation, including technological advancements and pilot training.
Presentation Details
- Enshrinement took place at the NAAA Awards Banquet on December 10, 1997.
- Tom Mills, who nominated Ayres, had the option to present the award personally.
Legacy
- Fred Ayres’ innovations, particularly the Ayres Turbo Thrush, have transformed agricultural aviation.
- His efforts in pilot training and aircraft development have left a lasting impact on the industry.
