Albany Herald

More than 100 ag aviators and their families celebrated the arrival of the the first Thrush Aircraft 510P in Argentina. Thrush Aircraft are now flying in eight South American countries and more than 2,200 are flying in more than 80 countries worldwide.

ALBANY -- Thrush Aircraft has added an eighth South American country to its portfolio with the delivery and flight of a 510P in Argentina.

The 510 was purchased by Sandro and Telma Peisino, owners of Yebila Serivicios Agroaereos, ag aviation operator in Venado Tuerto, Argentina.

"I don't believe any other manufacturer offers an airplane that can provide such maneuverability," Peisino said following the flight. "The Thrush 510P maintains the highest margin of safety and dependability that we demand in our operation. There is simply no better aircraft."

More that 100 agricultural aviators and operators in Argentina attended the first flight demonstration to help celebrate the maiden voyage and for a chance to see the legendary 510P up close.

Piloted by Terry Humphrey, Thrush Aircraft's Marketing and Contract Sales Director, the first flight showcased the Thrush 510P in action.

While the 510P was in flight the aviators were able to see the load and carry capabilities of the aircraft with a full hopper, as well as the wing design of the Thrush 510P.

The demonstration also included a presentation by Thrush Aircraft President Payne Hughes with an opportunity for many aviators to ask questions about the aircraft.

"South America is a booming market for us, and there is a huge demand and market for the 510P Thrush in Argentina." Hughes said.

Thrush manufactures a full range of aerial application aircraft used in agriculture, forestry and fire fighting roles worldwide.

Today there are more than 2,200 Thrush aircraft operating in some 80 countries around the world.

Hughes says he expects business to get a boost as soon the company's new 510G aircraft -- with a new GE engine -- is fully certified.

Hughes added the company has pre-sold 10 of the 510Gs, but will withhold further production until the federal certification process is complete.