“Gallons per acre” isn’t a standard measure of aeronautical performance, unless a plane spotter is discussing one way owners use a highly specialized aircraft unmistakable for its ample width, tailwheel configuration, and impressive size. Whether the model you are inspecting is a radial-engine-powered AT-401, a turboprop AT-802, or any of the models in between, Air Tractors perform aerial application, fight fires, and even compete against unmanned aircraft systems for military assignments. The aircraft also makes a heck of a floatplane, as occasional sightings at summer aviation events have confirmed.
Dan Namowitz
Dan Namowitz has been writing for AOPA in a variety of capacities since 1991. He has been a flight instructor since 1990 and is a 35-year AOPA member.
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