It should be noted that agricultural drones are no longer just undergoing tests and demonstrations. The technology has already reached a point where the devices are routinely integrated into the operational core of farming. This can be seen not only in demonstration plots. According to information provided by DJI, there are over 600 thousand agricultural drones currently in use around the world, along with as many trained pilots. This shows how aerial spraying, seeding and crop monitoring have become standard instruments used by farmers. In addition, the technology is adopted in a variety of crops, such as coffee, corn, soybeans and sugarcane. This is made possible due to the legislation recognizing agricultural drones as a normal component of agricultural operations.
This is easily explained by multiple benefits of using UAVs for agriculture. For example, the drone does not compact the soil while operating in wet weather, is able to cover field edges and apply chemicals only in areas requiring this. Therefore, drones fit perfectly into the concept of precision agriculture when growers use aerial imaging and targeted application in order to avoid using general treatment. DJI has mentioned that spot spraying can lead to herbicide savings up to 35%. It has also reported that the entire fleet of DJI agricultural drones has saved 410 million tons of water and avoided carbon emissions of 51 million tons.
There is also a wide variety of tasks which are best accomplished through UAVs. Trials showed that drone application could help to greatly reduce the operating cost compared to manual and tractor-based methods. In addition, vineyards and sloping fields showed why a small unmanned aircraft is better suited to such terrains than large machines. According to tests conducted by the company, drone spraying showed much less drift than traditional crop dusting. It can be assumed that UAVs are becoming a new tool of the agricultural arsenal in those areas that require precision and quick reaction.
In other countries, regulatory aspects have facilitated the process of adopting drones for agricultural purposes. For instance, regulations have been eased for Brazil, Spain and Argentina. At the same time, Canada has allowed the usage of agricultural drones without the need for a special certificate. Thus, foreign farmers do not face many barriers to using drones in their fields.
On the contrary, the United States is a totally different story. There is quite a cumbersome process of obtaining permits to operate a drone for agricultural activities. A farmer needs a Remote Pilot Certificate, aircraft registration, Remote ID compliance and, in case of agricultural spraying or seeding, an Agricultural Aircraft Operator Certificate, which falls under Part 137. There is also a requirement to operate within the line of sight limits and other requirements concerning more advanced technologies like multiple-drone operation.
To make matters worse, a severe problem exists regarding supplies to the United States’ market of spray drones from China. As per warnings from industry representatives published in AgFunderNews, the introduction of broad sanctions in this area would result in 90% of the supply being blocked. This situation explains the popularity of American alternative brands such as Guardian Agriculture, Hylio and Pyka.
In conclusion, the adoption of drones in other countries is driven by regulatory issues, but in the US – the reverse process is happening. It means that while other nations facilitate the use of drones in the field, American farmers must still struggle to obtain certificates and operate UAVs. In a world where precise application, low input waste and quick action are key factors, this creates a situation which cannot be solved by regulation alone.