FAA Drone Rules for Agriculture Explained (Part 107 & 137)

The FAA is the primary regulatory body for all civil aviation in the United States, including drones. Its mission is to provide the safest, most efficient aerospace system in the world. For commercial drone operations, two key sets of regulations are particularly relevant to agriculture: Part 107 and Part 137.

Part 107, officially known as “Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS) Rule,” is the most common certification for commercial drone pilots. It allows individuals to operate drones for business purposes, provided they meet certain requirements:

• Remote Pilot Certificate: Operators must pass an aeronautical knowledge test at an FAA-approved testing center to obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate with a sUAS rating.
• Aircraft Registration: All drones weighing 0.55 pounds (250 grams) or more must be registered with the FAA.
• Operational Limitations: Part 107 includes restrictions such as:
– Operating only during daylight or civil twilight (with anti-collision lighting).
– Maintaining visual line of sight (VLOS) with the drone.
– Maximum altitude of 400 feet above ground level (AGL) or above a structure.
– Maximum speed of 100 mph (87 knots).
– Not operating over people or moving vehicles (unless certain conditions are met).
– Not operating from a moving aircraft or vehicle (unless in a sparsely populated area).

Part 107 is suitable for many agricultural applications, especially those involving data collection, mapping, and general inspection. However, for operations involving the dispensing of materials, such as spraying, Part 137 becomes relevant.

Part 137, known as “Agricultural Aircraft Operations,” specifically addresses the use of aircraft (including drones) for dispensing agricultural materials. This includes spraying pesticides, fertilizers, seeds, or other substances. Obtaining a Part 137 certificate is a more involved process than Part 107 and typically requires:

• Part 107 Certificate: Operators must first hold a valid Remote Pilot Certificate under Part 107.
• Part 137 Application: An application must be submitted to the FAA, detailing the proposed operations, aircraft to be used, and the qualifications of the personnel.
• Operating Certificate: The FAA will issue an Agricultural Aircraft Operator Certificate (Part 137) if all requirements are met.
• Operational Requirements: Part 137 operations have specific requirements related to:
– Aircraft: The drone must be capable of safely dispensing the materials.
– Personnel: Pilots must be trained in agricultural aircraft operations.
– Safety: Strict safety protocols must be in place, including emergency procedures and spill containment plans.
– Coordination: Operations often require coordination with local authorities and adherence to environmental regulations.

Part 137 is essential for any agricultural operation that involves the aerial application of substances, making it critical for businesses utilizing spraying drones like the DJI Agras series.

The primary distinction between Part 107 and Part 137 lies in the nature of the operation:

When to Use Which Part?

Part 107 is ideal for tasks such as crop scouting, field mapping, NDVI analysis, livestock monitoring, and general farm inspections where no materials are being dispensed.

Part 137 is absolutely necessary for any operation involving the aerial application of pesticides, fertilizers, cover crops, or other agricultural products. If your drone is spraying, you need Part 137.

Some operations might require both. For instance, a pilot might use a Part 107 drone for initial crop scouting and mapping, then switch to a Part 137 certified drone for targeted spraying based on the collected data.

Adhering to FAA regulations offers significant benefits beyond simply avoiding penalties:

• Legal Protection: Operating within the legal framework protects you and your business from potential liabilities and legal issues.
• Insurance Coverage: Most insurance providers require compliance with FAA regulations for coverage to be valid.
• Safety: Regulations are designed to ensure the safety of airspace, people on the ground, and property.
• Professionalism: Demonstrates a commitment to best practices and professionalism, enhancing your reputation in the agricultural community.
• Access to Opportunities: Many clients and partners will only work with legally compliant operators.

The costs associated with FAA compliance primarily involve:

• Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate: Exam fees (typically around $175), study materials, and potential training courses.
• Part 137 Certification: Application fees, costs associated with developing operational manuals, safety plans, and potentially specialized training for agricultural operations.
• Drone Equipment: The cost of agricultural drones themselves, which can range from thousands to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on capabilities.
• Insurance: Commercial drone insurance is an ongoing cost but is essential for protecting your investment and operations.
• Maintenance and Upgrades: Regular maintenance and keeping up with technological advancements and regulatory changes.

While there are costs involved, viewing them as an investment in the long-term viability and safety of your agricultural drone operations is crucial. The potential fines and liabilities for non-compliance far outweigh the costs of proper certification.

Navigating FAA regulations for agricultural drones might seem complex, but it’s a fundamental step towards safe, legal, and profitable operations. Whether you’re conducting crop scouting under Part 107 or performing precision spraying with a Part 137 certificate, understanding and adhering to these rules is paramount. AGRONIX is dedicated to empowering agricultural professionals with not only the most advanced DJI Agriculture drones but also the knowledge and training necessary to operate them responsibly and effectively. By embracing regulatory compliance, you’re not just flying a drone; you’re cultivating a smarter, safer, and more sustainable future for your farm.