The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DAC), via Resolution No. DGAC-DGAC-2023-0037-R, reformed the norm that regulates the operation of remotely piloted aircraft. As a result, banana producers are authorized to use drones with more than 150 kilos of maximum take-off weight.
The reforms introduce changes in the regulations that eliminate some operational limitations in agriculture, thus promoting the adoption of modern and precision agriculture practices, the Association of Banana Exporters (AEBE) stated. However, it also establishes the impossibility of operating equipment simultaneously - with the exception of machines that meet the conditions for operation, according to the manufacturer - and the prohibition of manually operating the aircraft from a moving vehicle.
The reforms will lead to the adoption of new technologies for aero fumigation, in line with modern practices in global agriculture, the AEBE stated.
Jose Antonio Hidalgo, executive director of AEBE, stated that heavier drones cover more hectares and require fewer hours to carry out the jobs. Their use also makes it possible to take care of the areas near rivers or population centers.
Source: elcomercio.com