Important features of helicopter crop dusting:

Weather: The helicopters are allowed to operate in more restricted weather conditions than airplanes.

Night Applications: The ability of the helicopter to fly at low altitude in reduced operating speeds, equipped with night navigation systems (NVG), allows to take advantage of the best weather conditions for aerial applications. During the night, the two major limiting factors for aerial spraying do not occur: the high temperature and humidity. Another advantage is the fact that most insects have nocturnal feeding habits and consequently greater movement and exposure to chemicals.

Downwash effect: The drops are pushed down due to the effect produced by the helicopter rotor blades which causes a low drift.

Reduced vortex effect: Responsible for the loss of small droplets (< 150 μm), is widely seen in the wingtip of agricultural airplanes, it is almost does not exist in helicopters due to their low speeds during applications. It is noteworthy that airplanes and helicopters have the ability to apply in one hour the same as ground equipment would do in one day. Despite the increased speed, airplanes take longer to perform the necessary maneuvers.

Versatility: The helicopter can also be used for other purposes such as heavy loads and firefighting, and are able to work without problems in mountainous regions.

Product capacity (chemicals): Helicopters can carry up to 1000 liters, depending on the aircraft. The versatility of the helicopter land vertically almost anywhere, combined with a reinforced truck working as a landing point within the crop and equipped with meteorological sensors, pre-mixing tank, water, fuel and chemicals, enables refueling in the field, without the need to transfer to the nearest runway with fuel supply facilities as required by airplanes.

FORM RAC (CIVIL AVIATION REPORT)

The Civil Aviation Reporting System is voluntary, confidential and non-punitive, with respect to unintended or inadvertent errors. This form must be completed by any person who has observed any situation of potential risk to Climb Aircraft Division operations. It is not necessary to identify yourself to complete the report, but if you do, your name will be kept confidential.