N E W S & V I E W S • D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 4 27 For aerial pesticide application, operators must be registered as Aerial Pest Control Operators (PCOs) and adhere strictly to label instructions. • Civil Aviation Act of 2009: Drones used for pesticide application are classified as remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS) under this act. Operators must possess a Remote Pilot Licence (RPL) and ensure that the drone has a valid registration and RPAS Operator Certificate (ROC). Compliance with radio communication requirements and competency in operating relevant equipment are also mandated. • SANS 10118 Standards: These standards outline the responsibilities of foresters or farmers, known as sponsors, who are commissioning drone-based pesticide applications. Sponsors must be aware of all pesticide precautions and relevant application instructions, including proximity to sensitive areas within a 5km radius. Drone pilots or application companies are responsible for ensuring the quality and effectiveness of pesticide application. Operational Considerations and Best Practices Several technical and operational guidelines are critical to drone-based pesticide application. First, to avoid pesticide drift—which can lead to environmental contamination—drones should not spray while banking or diving. Nozzle placement on the drone is crucial, with nozzles ideally located within the inner 66-75% of the wingspan to avoid wingtip vortices that can disperse pesticide droplets further than intended. Drones are also highly sensitive to weather conditions, especially humidity, wind and rain which can compromise application accuracy and effectiveness, requiring operators to carefully monitor and adjust to mitigate these environmental influences. Challenges and Limitations While drones offer distinct advantages, they also have their limitations. Their smaller payload capacity, compared to traditional aerial vehicles, requires more frequent refills and can restrict the area covered per flight. Additionally, compatibility with tank mixes can be an issue, as not all pesticide formulations are suitable for drone application. This underscores the importance of selecting the right products and strictly following label instructions. Current aerial application guidelines, designed primarily for fixed-wing aircraft, may not be applicable to drone operations. If there is any uncertainty about whether a label can be followed for drone use, always consult the product manufacturer for clarification before proceeding. When in doubt – don’t spray! It is critical to remember that pesticide label instructions are legally binding and must be adhered to exactly as written. If an application is made without explicit aerial application approval or if the label’s prescribed water volumes are altered, the manufacturer will not be held responsible for any potential negative results, and there could be serious legal consequences. Always prioritize compliance to avoid risks to both safety and liability. Conclusion The adoption of drones for pesticide application in South Africa’s forestry industry holds promise for a more precise, efficient, and sustainable pest management solution. However, strict adherence to the regulatory framework is essential to ensure safety, efficacy, and compliance with national standards. As drone technology and regulatory alignment continue to evolve, drones could play an even more significant role in sustainable forestry management across South Africa in the long term. However, current label instructions under Act 36 of 1947 are for fixed-wing aircraft and manufacturers are still developing protocols for trialing drones so that label extensions can be submitted and approved by the Registrar. When label instructions specifically authorize drone application, it allows pesticide use via drones to become a valuable tool in the forest industry’s arsenal, enabling more efficient operations while ensuring legal compliance. Resources CropLife South Africa POSITION STATEMENT: USE OF DRONES FOR AERIAL APPLICATION OF AGRICULTURAL REMEDIES© CropLife South Africa Compliance Checklist Guideline: Aerial Application of Pesticides FSA TIPWG Standard Operating Procedure: Drones FSA TIPWG Standard Operating Procedure: Aerial Spraying (SANS 10118)
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