3rd Gen Aviation LLC

03/16/2026

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/18BZMRbZqx/?mibextid=wwXIfr

With more than 700,000 acres ablaze across Nebraska - an area larger than the state of Rhode Island - firefighters are battling some of the largest wildfires the state has ever seen. Firefighters on the ground battle the Cottonwood Fire, extending about 40 miles from Farnam to Brady as the crow flie...

09/19/2025

Such a beautiful write up from a wonderful friend. Thank you Ronni Carter , what would we do without you and Bobbi Munkeby .

This week I’m excited to feature 3rd GEN Aviation, owned and operated by husband-and-wife team Ben & Lacie Halstenson. Now entering their 5th season since starting the business in 2021, they’ve built a reputation rooted in family, trust, and dedication.

As the name implies, Ben is a third-generation agricultural pilot, following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather. With more than 20 years of flying experience, Ben brings both skill and knowledge to the skies, providing aerial application services including fungicide, insecticides, w**d control, cover crop, and desiccation.

Behind the scenes, Lacie takes care of the details that keep things running. From ground support to coordination, she makes sure each flight goes off smoothly. While Ben manages the flying and logistics, Lacie handles communication and customer care—making sure every detail is covered.

When asked about how far they’re willing to travel (as I know Ben is known to take a cross-country trip midweek), Lacie explained: “We try to keep it in a range where it’s beneficial for us and the farmer, and if we have to recommend another trusted pilot because of distance, we will do our best.”

Together, Ben and Lacie run their business with values of honesty, clarity, and commitment. They understand the importance of family-run operations and the legacy they represent—something many of their farm clients can relate to. As Lacie shared: “We are very passionate about the care of farmers’ crops, and we help with any questions or give our opinions of what to spray throughout the plant cycle.”

The Halstensons treat every farmstead as if it were their own. Their care, integrity, and dedication shine through in every flight and every relationship they build.

Join me in celebrating 3rd GEN Aviation and the important role they play in supporting our local farms and communities! Show your support and check out their page: https://bit.ly/4nAnzxt

If you have more questions or need aerial application services? You can reach them directly at [email protected] or call (701) 739-5463.

09/06/2025

10/15/2024

As we start to wrap up on 2024, our 4th season as 3rd Gen Aviation LLC, we just wanted to say how grateful we are. We are incredibly grateful for our returning customers and for our new customers that decided to try us out. To trust us with your personal investments by the acre means a lot to us, we don't take it lightly. We will always do our best to get you the results you are looking for.
We are grateful for our family and friends that have helped us throughout the season, taking care of our children, picking up products or even just making a meal on those days that go by too fast. We literally would not be able to pull this off without you.
We are grateful and so proud of our young loaderman Jake Mairs. It was his first season, and to put it bluntly, he kicked some ass. There is a tough learning curve in this business when it comes to long hours and accountability and he crushed it.
Lastly, we are grateful for God's grace and protection. To make it through another season without any major catastrophes or injuries is not something we take for granted. We lost many wonderful, talented and loved pilots this year. To be an Aerial Applicator, it has to be in your blood without any reservation. It is not a job that you can do on a whim. It is difficult, dangerous and amazing.
To wrap it up, here's to an "off season" of learning, improving and preparation for next year! 🍻

Sincerely, 3rd Gen Aviation LLC.

12/26/2023

Happy Holidays from 3rd Gen Aviation! Good luck and travel safe during these icy conditions!

09/20/2023

Proud moment..

08/08/2023

07/06/2023

Can't beat this office view.