Most people think of farming as an earthbound business, but high above the skies of Ontario, a group of farmers are challenging this norm.
The International Flying Farmers, a group of farmers and flying enthusiasts, have been gathering across North America since the organization was first formed in 1944 in Oklahoma.
Since then, the organization has launched chapters across Canada and the United States, including in Ontario, Manitoba and Alberta.
Read Also
VIDEO: EastGen unveils refreshed brand identity at Canada’s Outdoor Farm Show 2025
EastGen revealed a new brand identity at customer appreciation lunch at Canada’s Outdoor Farm Show.
Throughout its history, the organization has used a shared passion for agriculture and aviation to raise funds for charity, bring awareness to farming issues and create a place where farmers can connect and share outside interests.
In Ontario, more than 50 members meet regularly at fly-ins at hangars across the province to take part in activities and fundraisers. Long-time member Marilyn Bruinsma, who is based out of Goderich, says that the Ontario chapter is unique for the number of families that have been a part of the organization.
At the heart of the organization is a group of people who are dedicated to keeping the spirit of flying and agriculture alive. In the past, Marilyn noted, a “strip book” was published so pilots could find grass landing strips on farms for fly-ins and meetups.
“It is an excuse to fly. We have met a lot of nice people,” she says.
She says flying offers a unique perspective on farm life. Her own father was one of the first in Ontario to use an aerial sprayer. She and her husband, Fred, have been across much of Canada in their airplanes over the years, flying as far as Florida.
“Everything looks so clean and neat up there; you don’t see a weed,” Fred adds, adding when he first joined the club, pilots could peer down into silos to see how the harvest was going. However, today, more advanced storage facilities keep those details hidden from the air.
He notes there has also been a demographic shift over the years that may be more visible from the air than the ground.
“There are fewer farmers and more crops.” Farmers plant and harvest more acres using bigger equipment, he adds.
At this time of year, the couple said, autumn colours are one of the most appealing parts of travelling to fly-ins.
Like many organizations and clubs across Ontario, membership retention is an ongoing issue.
Today, not all members of the Flying Farmers need to be farmers or even pilots, but they share a common desire for fellowship and agriculture.
To help those interested in getting into aviation, the Flying Farmers used to run a “Land It” program to help pilots perfect their safe landing skills. Additionally, the club hosts safety talks on aviation and technology to help keep members up-to-date on the latest industry news and trends. There are also regular guests who offer information on farming safety and activism.
Marilyn notes that the organization has also offered many members the chance to travel and see farms and dairy shows across the U.S. and Canada. These events are more than just a chance to talk shop; they are also an opportunity to raise funds for causes important to the organization.
In the past, the group has raised funds for Hope Air, an organization that provides air transportation to patients in need of hospital care and treatment at facilities far from where they reside. The group has also done work with Ronald McDonald House, Junior Farmers, and other groups in agriculture.
“We see a need, and usually by the time you are a Flying Farmer, you have a dollar or two behind you,” she said. This is not a requirement; however, the club is open to anyone from any background.
She says the group also offers a unique opportunity for farmers to take a break from the day-to-day grind of management.
“It brings all the farmers together while being able to share a common hobby,” she said, adding that the focus right now is to build on all the opportunities the club offers to grow membership. She reminds those interested that all backgrounds are welcome. “We get to build a more interconnected community and get everyone together.”
Check out our interview with International Flying Farmers, Ontario chapter member Gwen Wilson who shares how she and her husband became members:
