Agricultural drones in the US DJI AGRAS

Drones are becoming more and more useful for farming in the US.  The DJI Agras and the Mavic 3 Multispectral in combination are a powerful  way to monitor and spray your fields.  There are some regulations that the FAA requires you to do before you can fly the DJI Agras on your farm.  

Drone Pilot License Remote Pilot Certificate Part 107:   In order to fly drones in the US, the FAA requires that you take a test and pass your Remote Pilot Certificate Part 107.  This certification demonstrates that you understand the regulations, operating requirements, weather and procedures for safely flying in the US airspace.  You will also be required to register your drone with the FAA and give your drone a FA number.

FAA License to Dispense Chemicals and Agricultural Products Part 137:  There’s a new streamlined process for those applying for a Part 137 UAS certificate. This allows the FAA to streamline both the Part 137 agricultural UAS certification and the drone exemption process for visual line of sight (VLOS) operations conducted within the altitude and airspeed limitations stipulated by the exemption.  Click HERE> to start the process with the FAA.

Over 55  Pounds Exemption to Part 137:  If your drone is over 55 pounds, you will need to apply for an exemption from several of the regulations for Part 137.  The DJI Agras T30 & T40 are over 55 pounds.  There are several regulations in 14 CFR Parts 61, 91, and 137 that require the exemption.  You can apply for a request to operate drones that are previously on the approved list.  If you are flying anything over 55 pounds, you are also required to have a 3rd class medical certificate.    

Apply for an Agricultural Aircraft Operator Certificate (AAOC):   You must complete the exemption process before applying for the AAOC license.  This license does differ from state to state, you will need to demonstrate that you have the necessary knowledge and training to apply pesticides safely from the air.  This may require a test and demonstration in the field as well as liability insurance proof.

It is important to research the regulations that in place for your state for commercial applicator license.  Each state will vary.