Edgar A. Hobbs — National Agricultural Aviation Hall of Fame

Introduction

Edgar A. Hobbs is recognized as one of the most influential figures in agricultural aviation, particularly in the state of Mississippi and nationwide. His lifelong dedication to the field, both as a business operator and regulatory leader, has left a lasting impact on industry standards, safety, and organizational effectiveness.

Career and Accomplishments

Industry Leadership and Advocacy

• Successful Operator: Hobbs managed a successful agricultural aviation operation in Moorhead, Mississippi, for many years before transitioning into regulatory leadership.
• Regulatory Pioneer: Played a pivotal role in constructing and passing the Agricultural Aviation Board Act of 1968. This act created the unique Mississippi Agricultural Aviation Board, consisting of operator members and a regulatory representative to oversee the state’s industry. Mississippi remains the only state with such a board.
• Field Director: Served as Field Director for the Mississippi Agricultural Aviation Board from its formation until his retirement in 1997. In this position, Hobbs was instrumental in ensuring operator compliance, promoting safety, and professionalizing agricultural aviation throughout the state.

National Contributions

• F.A.R. 137 Development: Was a leading force in the development and acceptance of Federal Aviation Regulation (F.A.R.) Part 137, the pivotal federal rule governing agricultural aircraft operations in the U.S. Hobbs advocated for industry interests at national meetings (notably in Oklahoma City) and worked closely with high-ranking members of Congress, including Senator James O. Eastland.
• Safety Initiatives: Instrumental in organizing annual safety meetings for the Mississippi Association, efforts that contributed to Mississippi being declared the safest state for ag aviation.

Bridging with Government and Industry

• EPA Relations: Developed a constructive relationship between the agricultural aviation industry and the Environmental Protection Agency, resulting in a productive environment for operators nationwide. His successful engagement was recognized with a prestigious EPA award upon his retirement.
• Technical Advancements: Helped facilitate regulatory approval for the use of automotive gasoline in certain radial engines, yielding significant cost savings for many operators during critical times.

Community and Legacy

• Support for Industry Institutions: Played a leadership role in establishing the National Agricultural Aviation Museum in Jackson, Mississippi, helping preserve and promote the history of the field.
• Lifelong Advocacy: Dedicated the bulk of his adult life to advancing agricultural aviation, remaining active after formal retirement as a loyal associate member of the National Association and as a regular convention attendee.
• Decorated Veteran: Served as an Army Air Corps flying officer during his earlier years.

Recognition and Awards

• Honorary Lifetime Member of the Mississippi Agricultural Aviation Association (MAAA)—the organization’s highest honor.
• Held leadership positions including President of the MAAA (1968) and longtime member of MAAA’s Board of Directors.
• Presented with a distinguished award by the Environmental Protection Agency for his outstanding service.

Conclusion

Edgar A. Hobbs is an exemplary advocate, leader, innovator, and supporter of agricultural aviation. He is credited with establishing vital safety standards, regulatory frameworks, and industry-government cooperation that set benchmarks for the entire nation. The Mississippi Agricultural Aviation Association and correspondents from several industry organizations agree there is no one more deserving of recognition and enshrinement in the National Agricultural Aviation Hall of Fame than Mr. Hobbs, whose commitment and achievements have benefited generations of operators and set enduring standards for safety and professionalism.