Reflections on smaller SEATs Part 2 (300 to 799 gallon tanks)

Over the years, I have come across Thrush aircraft as both Ag Aircraft used for crop dusting and insect control as well as as a SEAT for wildland firefighting, albeit with a tank under 800 gallons. A SEAT such as one of those built by Thrush may be used by state or local agencies during their wildfire season, either under contract or purchased out rightThe Georgia  Forestry Commission purchased two dual cockpit Thrush 510G aircraft with a switchback gate in 2017. The tank or hopper can hold up to 510 gallons. The switchback gate can be easily and quickly converted from firefighting operations to agriculture operations within a matter of minutes. While not something that Georgia will use the switchback configuration will add to the resale value. The benefit of the dual cockpit is that the Thrush can be used for training. See Bill Gabbert's December 2017 Fire Aviation article for more information about Georgia's Thursh 510G aircraft.

Here area two short videos of Georgia's Thrush 501G aircraft.

Direct link to video

Direct link to video