Aircraft overview

The Air Tractor AT-502 is a single-seat, turbine agricultural aircraft built by Air Tractor in Olney, Texas. The model is part of the AT-500 family and dates from the mid 1980s, with production continuing in upgraded forms. It was developed around a 500 gallon chemical hopper, giving operators a step up from smaller ag aircraft while retaining the handling, runway flexibility and field-service simplicity expected in aerial application work. Its primary roles are crop spraying, fertilizer application, seeding and related utility missions, with some aircraft configured for firefighting or mosquito control.

Performance & specifications

Typical AT-502 performance depends on variant, engine, propeller and working equipment. Common AT-502B aircraft use the Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-34AG turboprop rated at 750 shp, while the later AT-502XP uses the PT6A-140AG rated at 867 shp. Published figures for current AT-502B examples include a 500 gallon hopper, maximum takeoff weight around 9,400 lb and useful load a little over 5,000 lb. Normal cruise is commonly in the 120 to 140 knot range depending on load and power setting. Ferry range is typically several hundred nautical miles with standard fuel. Service ceiling is commonly published around 15,000 feet, although most agricultural work is conducted at low altitude.

Cabin & avionics

The AT-502 has a single-seat cockpit rather than a passenger cabin. Visibility, ventilation, pilot protection and control ergonomics matter more than comfort appointments. Buyers should expect a working cockpit with agricultural controls, spray system monitoring and mission-specific equipment. Avionics are usually practical VFR installations: VHF communication radio, transponder with ADS-B where required, engine instruments, GPS guidance, lightbar or moving-map guidance, and spray-flow control systems. Garmin Perspective and G1000 integrated flight decks are not typical AT-502 equipment. Common brands in service include Satloc, Ag-Nav, Garmin radios and various flow-control packages.

Buying & value

Used AT-502 buyers should focus on airframe total time, turbine cycles, hot section and overhaul status, corrosion prevention, hopper condition, wing and landing gear inspection history, and the condition of booms, pumps, valves and dispersal equipment. Agricultural aircraft often accumulate demanding low-altitude cycles, so maintenance records and structural compliance are critical. The AT-502B is the most recognized turbine variant, while the AT-502XP appeals to operators wanting higher power and improved hot-and-high performance. On the used market, the AT-502 sits between smaller turbine or piston ag aircraft and the larger AT-602 and AT-802, making it a common choice for operators needing 500 gallon capacity without moving into the heaviest Air Tractor class.