Skip to main content
AGRICHEMICALS

Agricultural Operations

Specialist training and certification for agricultural drone operations, including aerial spraying, topdressing and vertebrate toxic agent application.

AGRICULTURAL OPERATIONS

Understanding the Requirements

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.

Aerial application

Spraying, topdressing and vertebrate toxic agents.

Other activities

Certain operations involving agricultural, horticultural or forestry loads.

Part 102 approval

The appropriate exposition and operational privileges are required.

YOUR JOURNEY

Five Steps to Spraying

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.

Start here

We handle it for you

01

Part 102 certification

We prepare and submit your Part 102 application and exposition to the CAA, including the privileges needed for agricultural operations.

$3,600 + GST

CAA wait currently around 8 months

Learn more →

While you wait

Get your training done

02

Advanced UAS course

Build the advanced remote-pilot knowledge and skills needed for more complex operations.

$1,545 + GST

3 days

Course dates →
03

Pilot Chemical Rating

Complete the specialist training required for agricultural chemical application through AirEx Training.

$4,000 + GST

2 days · Valid for 5 years

AirEx Training →

Once you’re approved

On your own spray drone

04

Competency assessment / OCA

Complete your flight test and competency assessment for agricultural operations.

$600 + GST

Flight test

05

UAV Agricultural Rating

Complete the final agricultural rating training and assessment. Appropriate insurance is required.

$4,000 + GST

2–3 days · Insurance required

You’re spraying

Supervised, then on your own

First jobs supervised

Your first agricultural jobs are supervised. Once your examiner signs you off, you can operate independently, usually within 3–4 months.

To keep spraying

Every 12 months OCA / ACA assessment
Every 5 years Pilot Chemical Rating renewal or refresher

Additional requirements for vertebrate toxic agents (VTA)

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

Choosing an Agricultural Drone

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

Planning your agricultural drone operation?

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.

FenixUAS Agricultural Certification Guide Cover PNG
GET IN TOUCH

Want to know more or have a question?

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.

FENIX Flight Training Logo
CAA-Part-141-white-text-transparent

Members of

FOLLOW US
© Fenix UAS Limited. All rights reserved. Powered by YOOtheme.