Air Tractor At-503

Single Turboprop· 504 globally registered

The Air Tractor AT-502B is a purpose-built agricultural aircraft manufactured by Air Tractor Inc. of Olney, Texas, representing the company's turboprop evolution of their proven piston-engine designs. Introduced in the 1990s and powered by a Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-34AG turbine producing 750 shaft horsepower, the AT-502B combines the rugged low-altitude maneuverability essential for crop dusting with the reliability and power-to-weight advantages of turboprop propulsion. With a maximum takeoff weight of 16,000 pounds and a hopper capacity of 500 gallons, it can carry substantial payloads of liquid chemicals or dry materials while operating from short, unprepared strips adjacent to fields. The AT-502B's design prioritizes safety and efficiency in the demanding aerial application environment. Its high-wing configuration provides excellent downward visibility for the pilot during low-altitude passes, while the cockpit is positioned well forward and features a strong roll cage structure. The aircraft's stall speed of 58 knots in landing configuration and never-exceed speed of 175 knots define an operating envelope optimized for the repetitive climb, turn, and descent cycles of agricultural work rather than cross-country speed. The turboprop engine delivers consistent performance in hot-and-high conditions where piston engines struggle, and its instant throttle response proves invaluable during the critical pull-up phase after each spray run. Air Tractor has built over 3,000 aircraft since the company's founding in 1972, with the AT-502B becoming one of the most popular models among commercial aerial applicators worldwide. The type has also been adapted for firefighting with the addition of fire gates and retardant delivery systems. SkyMeter has tracked 631 flights across 87 airframes and 68 operators, with BRETT'S SPRAY SERVICE INC the largest observed operator.