Australian Ag Rating - Initial LL

[Mr_Pilot]

Sorry to post this thread here, but the search option will not allow under 4 characters. Ie. 'AG', Please move and edit it if it is deemed necessary. :suspect:

My question relates to the initial endorsement and classification of an Australian Ag Rating – (10 – 15 hours what is classed as grade three I think). Although at this point not wishing to venture into the world of Ag flying, I am looking for Low Level experience to become familiar with LL operations.

I not only believe that this would be a good experience for me, but show to potential employees that I am serious about making this move into LL operations. I have had some experience in my training, but would appreciate any information on training organisations that people have used or know of, costs are not important, I am not particularly looking to skimp when my life hangs in the balance flying solo under power lines :uhoh: (as per one stage outlined in the training syllabus).

I thank you in advance for your advice, experience and suggestions.

AH

[b747heavy]

Mr_pilot,

It has been a while since my Ag days, but back then I was sure that I did some 40 hours of flying training, and unless it has changed, there was no "Ag 3"?? I started on an "Ag 2" rating...??

I did my training with my employer at the time and the cost was around A$8,500 (back in 1993). You could try Field Air in Victoria? I have lost touch with those now offering Ag training.

On a personal note....there are other types of flying training that will get you into Low Level ops....if you do not intend to get into Ag, I would not recommend that you persue this rating? Buddies of mine have been flying LL for many years on powerline inspections, pipeline inspections etc without holding an Ag rating....be sure that the training you undertake is suitable for the type of flying that you wish to involve youself in. That said, the Ag rating will teach you a whole lot about LL ops and the dangers involved.

Anyway, good luck with your plans and stay safe.

B747heavy :ok:

[Mr_Pilot]

B747....

sounds like you have moved a long way on to get where you are from the 10ft to well over 10,000.... Thanks for the responce. The kind of work I do want to do is LL, but not in AG yet, although I do know a couple of people at Field Air and have often been in thier work shop - pobably where my desire comes from. But in going LL I want the best possible training availible as the margin for error is much smaller than other courses of progression in gaining experience.

I am looking into operations of line spotting and the similar to build up my experience and confidence, I have flown a couple of test runs with previous work mates, but am looking to expand my own knowledge as well as bredth of experience. Basically I dont know if AG is something I want to do, but feel that this would be a good way to also get a feel for it. :hmm:

I have already been in contact with FA and have a basic cost break down, but was looking for others to when I hit the brick wall of 'no responce'. :ugh:

Cheers again, for your time and kind words.

AH :ok:

[solowflyer]

Hi mate

Recently done my Ag rating was the most fun I have ever had. Give Barry Foster in Leongatha Vic a bell he will put you on the right track. I Don't think Field air do training any more but I may be wrong.

On a side note for any one looking at this, Hows the out look for the coming season looking over the eastern side now you have had a bit of rain? Still Fairly dry over here in the west so not looking good for the rust this year.

[185skywagon]

Try Rebel Ag(Tony Jones) at Trangie, NSW/ Pays Air Service at Scone, NSW/ Pratts at Kingaroy,QLD/ Baz at Woorayl Air Leongatha, VIC/ and Supaspread.

The 15 hours LL bit at the start of the rating is just that. That part of the syllabus applies to all low level ops. It must also be covered for a mustering endorsement.

185.