William “Bill” Hatfield — National Agricultural Aviation Hall of Fame

Introduction

William (Bill) Hatfield is renowned nationwide as an innovative leader, dedicated operator, and tireless advocate for agricultural aviation. With a career spanning more than half a century, Bill’s impact on agricultural aviation has been transformative—marked by technical ingenuity, organizational leadership, and a lifelong commitment to safety and professionalism in the industry.

Major Achievements and Contributions

Industry Leadership and Advocacy

Establishment of Hatfield Spraying Service: In 1970, Bill founded Hatfield Spraying Service in Michigan, delivering outstanding crop care and setting high standards for service and safety.
Pioneer in Turbine Power for Ag Aircraft: Recognizing the transformative potential of turbine engines, Bill was among the first ag operators to introduce turbine power, installing the third Frakes Turbo Cat conversion in 1978. His faith in turbine technology led to industry-wide adoption and higher performance standards.
Founder of Turbine Conversions, Ltd: In 1990, Bill established Turbine Conversions, Ltd. to design, develop, and market innovative solutions for agricultural aircraft, resulting in an impressive 28 FAA-approved Supplemental Type Certificates (STCs) that enhance aircraft safety, reliability, and efficiency on a global scale.

Technical Innovation

Trailblazer in Aircraft Modifications: Turbine Conversions, Ltd. brought numerous advancements to market, including:
Turbine conversion packages for various aircraft (M18 Dromader, Thrush, Ag Cat, Air Tractor)
Hydraulic Fire Gates with Interagency Airtanker Board (IAB) approval, now used internationally for aerial firefighting
Single Point Fueling System, which streamlines refueling and is approved by the Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Forestry Service for hot fueling on fire contracts
PMA-approved manufacturing facility and proprietary air inlet systems, cockpit heaters, and reinforced wing leading edges

Organizational and Industry Development

Professional Association Leadership:
Co-founder of the Michigan Agricultural Aviation Association (MAAA) in 1970 and an active promoter of ag aviation throughout the US and internationally.
Served ten years as Michigan’s representative to the National Agricultural Aviation Association (NAAA) Board of Directors.
Vice President of the NAAA in 1977 and held leadership positions on pivotal industry committees.
Co-founder of Operation SAFE (Self-regulating Application and Flight Efficiency), advancing safe and effective aerial applications.
Mentorship: Trained and mentored many young ag pilots, numerous of whom have become industry operators and association leaders.

Awards and Recognition

NAAA Agrinaut Award for excellence in aircraft operations (1980)
NAAA Falcon Club Award for outstanding industry contributions (1984)
Delta Airlines “Puffer” Award for design innovation in ag aircraft and equipment (2001)
Wright Brothers “Master Pilot” Award from the FAA, recognizing over 50 years of dedicated and safe service to aviation (2013)
Active Role in Single Engine Air Tanker Operations: President of the National Single Engine Air Tanker Association since 2007

Legacy and Impact

Bill Hatfield’s contributions have elevated the agricultural aviation profession in every dimension: technical, organizational, and personal. Through Turbine Conversions, Ltd., he has improved the safety, reliability, and efficiency of ag aircraft worldwide. His leadership in industry organizations and association boards has helped drive standards, legislation, and professionalism. Bill’s mentoring and example have left a positive, lasting legacy for future generations of ag pilots and operators.

Conclusion

William “Bill” Hatfield’s distinguished career, characterized by relentless innovation, unwavering integrity, and industry-wide leadership, has profoundly shaped the direction and success of agricultural aviation. His enshrinement in the National Agricultural Aviation Hall of Fame recognizes not just his technical achievements, but also his enduring influence as an advocate, mentor, and champion for the industry.