Part 102 certification
We prepare and submit your Part 102 application and exposition to the CAA, including the privileges needed for agricultural operations.
Specialist training and certification for agricultural drone operations, including aerial spraying, topdressing and vertebrate toxic agent application.
Agricultural operations include aerial agrichemical application, such as spraying and topdressing, vertebrate toxic agents, and certain other activities involving agricultural loads. These activities require an appropriate Part 102 exposition and operational privileges. Aerial agrichemical application also requires specific training and qualifications.
Spraying, topdressing and vertebrate toxic agents.
Certain operations involving agricultural, horticultural or forestry loads.
The appropriate exposition and operational privileges are required.
We start your Part 102 first because it takes the longest, and you complete your training while CAA processes it. We’ll guide you through each stage.
We handle it for you
We prepare and submit your Part 102 application and exposition to the CAA, including the privileges needed for agricultural operations.
Get your training done
Build the advanced remote-pilot knowledge and skills needed for more complex operations.
Complete the specialist training required for agricultural chemical application through AirEx Training.
On your own spray drone
Complete your flight test and competency assessment for agricultural operations.
$600 + GST
Flight test
Complete the final agricultural rating training and assessment. Appropriate insurance is required.
$4,000 + GST
2–3 days · Insurance required
Supervised, then on your own
Your first agricultural jobs are supervised. Once your examiner signs you off, you can operate independently, usually within 3–4 months.
If you plan to apply vertebrate toxic agents, you will also need a Controlled Substance Licence after completing your Pilot Chemical Rating. See the WorkSafe guidance →
HERE TO HELP
Agricultural drones are constantly evolving, with the major manufacturers releasing a new model at least once a year. Which agricultural drone is right for you depends on what you want to do and the features on the latest models.
The best option is to talk to the retailer/reseller. The most reputable agricultural drone brands sold in New Zealand are DJI, XAG, SPS Automation, and DO Drones.
For XAG agricultural drones talk to Airborne Solutions, and for DJI talk to AgSmart UAV, Ferntech, and Incredible Group. Click on the logos to be taken to each supplier’s website.
If you import an agricultural/spray drone from overseas then the CAA will require that it is inspected before it is flown. If you hold a Part 102 certificate then your Part 102 exposition may list the approved maintenance providers. Alternatively, contact us for a referral.
RESOURCES
Download our Part 102 Certification and Agrichemical Application Qualification guide for a more detailed breakdown of the certification process, training requirements, indicative costs and ongoing obligations.

Whether you need guidance on agricultural drone requirements, training, or Part 102 certification, our team can help you understand the next steps for your operation.



