ABOUT US
The team at Airag Aviation Services has proudly served a diverse range of clients, from private aircraft owners to large charter operators across Australia.
With extensive experience in maintaining various types of aircraft, our skilled engineers and fully equipped workshop ensure efficient and effective maintenance, minimising downtime for owners and operators.
Additionally, our workshop is CASA-approved for the manufacturing of replacement cables and hoses, holding CASA Approval Number C518185.
OUR HISTORY
Airag Aviation Services traces its roots back to the 1950s, founded by Thomas J. Watson in 1952 at Bankstown Airport. Tom, a licensed engineer and pioneer in aerial agriculture, was awarded the Order of Australia Medal (OAM) in 2003 and the inaugural Lawrence Hargrave Medal in 1999 for his contributions to Australian aerospace.
He also imported the De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver aircraft from Canada, becoming the world’s largest civil operator of the Beaver, second only to the U.S. Air Force. The Beaver remains an iconic symbol of the company. At its peak, Aerial Agriculture operated 75 aircraft and became one of the largest aerial agriculture companies globally.
TODAY
Since the 1950s, maintenance for the Beaver and other aircraft was carried out in Hangar 17 at Bankstown Airport, with high safety and maintenance standards that allowed the company to self-insure its fleet. Hangar 17 also handled complex repairs, including rebuilding two crashed DHC-6 Twin Otter aircraft into one certified for operation. Additionally, a Beaver was converted into a turbo-prop version, which still flies today, reflecting the company’s commitment to craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Though the company has changed owners and names over the years, the heritage and tradition that began in Hangar 17 continue today. Rebranded in 2000 as Airag Aviation Services, the company no longer offers aerial agriculture services but retains the same pride, skill, and attention to detail that have defined it for decades.
The history of Aerial Agriculture Pty. Ltd. was not officially recorded or provided for this website, however it has been compiled from the recounts of current staff that have been with the company for over 30 years to date, combination of external sources and the Watson family: