2025-2026 PAASS - Nebraska ATA

Includes a Live In-Person Event on 02/24/2026 at 8:15 AM (CST)

The 2025-2026 PAASS program will begin with a review and analysis of agricultural aviation accidents that occurred during the 2025 application season. The human factors segment will focus on the importance of performing a weight and balance for agricultural aircraft. The environmental professionalism segment will cover utilization of larger droplet size models and understanding compliance with EPA's Pesticide Strategies. The security segment will discuss surveillance measures to employ in aerial application operations. View Full Summary

Event Date
24 Feb 2026 -- 8:15 AM - 3:00 PM CT

Event Location
Crowne Plaza Hotel
707 W Talmadge Road
Kearney, NE 68845

Perry Hofer

Doland Aerial Spraying

Perry Hofer started flying in 1980 and received his commercial license in 1985. After flying for Martin Beving, he started Doland Aerial Spraying in 1998 in Doland, SD, which he currently operates with his son, Mikel. Their operation utilizes 2 turbine Thrushes and one Weatherly.

Perry was elected 2023 NAAREF Board President, and has previously served as NAAA President in 2019.

He also operates a grain farm and cow/calf operation with his brother Kevin and two older sons Nik and Bryant. In the off-season, Perry enjoys overhauling antique Farmall tractors. He also spends as much time as he can going to baseball games with his youngest son, Matthew.

Brian Rau

Medina Flying Service

Brian and his wife Elly operate Medina Flying Service located in central North Dakota. They spray numerous crops including potatoes, wheat, sunflowers, soybeans and other minor use crops with a 500 gallon Thrush. They also spread cover crop for erosion control and assist with aerial fire suppression for their local fire department.

Brian has been involved in the aerial application business since 1979 and has been an NAAA member since 1985. He has held numerous offices in the NAAA including President in 2010. He has also served on the National Agricultural Aviation Research and Education Foundation (NAAREF) board of directors.

Brian is a commercial pilot with an instrument rating. He is the North Dakota Liaison to the Recreational Aviation Foundation.

Brian is a Nationally Registered Paramedic and works with his local volunteer ambulance service and the Medina Fire Department. Brian farms with his 2 brothers and nephew in central North Dakota. He has a Bachelor of Science degree in Agronomy from North Dakota State University.