Guide to flying agricultural drones for crop spraying

• Why proper agricultural drone training is essential
• Equipment and skills to prepare before flying
• Steps for flying agricultural drones correctly
• Common mistakes and risks when flying drones
• How to assess correct flight and spraying efficiency
• Five tips for efficient agricultural drone flying
• Comparison of popular agricultural drone models
• Conclusion

Why proper agricultural drone training is essential

In modern agriculture, using agricultural drones to spray pesticides has become an inevitable trend. However, without proper training, operators may struggle to control drones accurately and safely. Understanding the importance of proper drone piloting helps farmers avoid accidents and maximize performance.

Agricultural drone training involves more than basic controls - it covers flight safety awareness, pesticide knowledge, weather factors, terrain, software setup, and equipment inspection before and after flights. Incorrect operation can cause crashes, spraying errors, or reduced productivity.

Common risks of untrained operation:

• Flying at incorrect altitudes, causing uneven coverage
• Calibration errors resulting in over- or under-spraying
• Unstable control leading to collisions with crops or obstacles
• Misuse of software causing flight path or data errors

Benefits of mastering drone techniques:

• Saves costs on chemicals and labor
• Improves pest control coverage and effectiveness
• Meets high-tech farming standards

Thus, agricultural drone training is not an option but a necessity for efficient, sustainable farming.

Equipment and skills to prepare before flying

Precision flying requires more than intuition. Operators must be equipped with the right tools, software, and knowledge to ensure safety and efficiency.

Essential preparation includes:

1. Agricultural drones: The most common models are DJI Agras (T10, T20P, T40, T50, T70, T100) or XAG. Each model differs in tank capacity, speed, and automation features - review the manual carefully before flying.
2. Remote controller: A handheld device with a built-in screen, map display, and control buttons. Ensure it is fully charged and connected.
3. Flight planning software: Usually installed on a smartphone or tablet (e.g., DJI Agriculture, XAG One). It defines flight routes, spray zones, speed, and dosage.
4. Pesticides or fertilizers: Mix according to crop type and drone model. Avoid foaming or sediment-forming liquids to prevent nozzle blockage.
5. Essential skills:
   • Understanding basic drone components (propellers, GPS, battery, etc.)
   • Configuring flight software and importing route data
   • Evaluating wind direction and weather impact
   • Handling emergencies like signal loss or low battery
6. Protective gear: Helmet, goggles, gloves, and mask - required when handling chemicals or operating near spray zones.

If operating in populated or restricted areas, verify local flight regulations and register your device with authorities to ensure compliance.

Steps for flying agricultural drones correctly

Operating an agricultural UAV requires strict adherence to procedures - from pre-flight checks to post-flight maintenance.

Step 1: Inspect and prepare the drone

Check all systems: fully charged batteries, undamaged propellers, clear nozzles, and active sensors. Update firmware and maps.

Tip: Let batteries rest 10 minutes after charging to prevent overheating. Check wind speed and restricted airspace to avoid legal or safety issues.

Step 2: Plan the flight and input settings

Use flight software to map fields, select altitude, speed, lane spacing, and chemical dosage.

• For rice fields: fly at 2–3 m.
• For fruit trees: 4–5 m.
• Lane spacing: 3–5 m depending on nozzle type.

Modern DJI Agras drones can auto-adjust altitude based on terrain using radar and AI mapping.

Step 3: Mix and load pesticides

Mix according to guidelines, use clean water, and filter the solution. Ensure no leaks from the tank. Always wear protective gear when handling chemicals.

Step 4: Take off

Place the drone in a clear, open space. Connect GPS and start automatic or semi-auto takeoff. Maintain a clear view of the drone during the flight.

Step 5: Monitor and adjust mid-flight

Track wind speed, battery level, and spray accuracy. Pause operations if nozzles clog or spray patterns become uneven.

Step 6: Land and inspect after flight

Use RTH (Return to Home). Land gently, power off, remove batteries, and clean the tank and nozzles. Save flight data for analysis and maintenance logs.

Common mistakes and risks when flying drones

Despite automation, improper operation still leads to common issues:

1. Skipping pre-flight checks - causes crashes or loss of control.
2. Wrong pesticide calibration - results in wasted chemicals or crop damage.
3. Flying beyond programmed range - leads to signal loss.
4. Manual flight by untrained operators - increases collision risk.
5. Flying in strong wind or rain - reduces accuracy and safety.

Even though DJI Agras drones have intelligent fault alerts, users should always practice in safe areas before real-field operation.

How to assess correct flight and spraying efficiency

Knowing whether your spraying operation follows technical standards ensures consistent, measurable performance.

Signs of proper operation:

• Stable altitude (2–4 m for crops, 4–6 m for trees)
• Even spray pattern, no large droplets or mist
• Accurate route tracking
• Steady flight speed

Measuring spray effectiveness:

• Compare pesticide use vs. field size (ideal: 1L per 667 m²)
• Check pest reduction 24–48 hours post-spray (≥90% is effective)
• Use pH test paper at multiple points to confirm coverage uniformity
• Fewer repeat sprays per season = better efficiency

Five tips for efficient agricultural drone flying

1. Choose the right time
   Early morning (6–9 AM) or late afternoon (4–6 PM) offers best spray stability. Avoid strong winds and heat.
2. Keep software updated
   DJI and XAG regularly release firmware to improve flight precision and nozzle control.
3. Map the field using Fly-to-Scan
   Allows accurate terrain mapping and route planning.
4. Use zigzag routes instead of circular paths
   Ensures even coverage and prevents overlap.
5. Select compatible pesticides
   Use liquid or suspension formulations; avoid powders that clog nozzles.

Applying these methods reduces pesticide waste by 10–30% per season while extending drone lifespan.

Comparison of popular agricultural drone models

When learning to fly agricultural drones, choosing the right model is key. The two leading brands are DJI and XAG, both offering models designed for precision spraying.

Selection advice:

• Under 3 ha → DJI T10 or T25P
• 5–20 ha → DJI T20P, T40, or XAG V40
• Over 20 ha → DJI T50, T70P, T100, or XAG P100

Choose drones with automated flight routes, obstacle sensors, and waterproof systems for best results in variable terrain.

Conclusion

Learning to fly agricultural drones properly helps users prevent operational errors, ensure safe spraying, save costs, and protect the environment. With structured training and the right equipment - particularly high-performance DJI Agras drones - farmers can fully harness modern agricultural technology and move toward sustainable, data-driven farming.