Who is responsible for managing off-target pesticide drift during an aerial application?

During an aerial application of pesticides, the pilot holds the primary responsibility for managing off-target pesticide drift. This accountability stems from the pilot's direct control over the aircraft's flight path, the operation of the spray equipment, and their ability to adjust the application parameters in real-time to minimize drift.

The pilot assesses environmental conditions, such as wind speed and direction, temperature, and humidity, all of which significantly influence drift potential. By utilizing their training and experience, pilots can make informed decisions on how to conduct the application safely and effectively while adhering to regulations and best practices.

While the aircraft owner, ground crew, and regulatory agency play important roles in the overall safety and compliance of aerial applications, it is the pilot who actively takes measures to mitigate drift during the actual application process. This includes selecting the appropriate nozzles, adjusting application rates, and determining flight patterns that reduce the likelihood of pesticides moving off target.