Model Civil Aviation Regulations (MCARs) Version 2.8

Federal Aviation Regulation (FAA) Part 137.35 states, “No persons may dispense, or cause to be dispensed, from an aircraft, any material or substance in a manner that creates a hazard to persons or property on the surface.”[4]

Advisory Circular 137-1A, which explains the certification process for agricultural aircraft operations, further elaborates on this issue:

(2) The pilot should brief the groundcrew concerning the chemical being used and the necessary protective clothing. The protective equipment (rubber gloves, apron, boots, respirator, etc.) should be tailored to the environment and particular chemical in use.

When using flaggers, pilots should be able to brief them concerning the potential hazard of the pesticide being dispensed, and should indicate that they equip themselves with the appropriate protective equipment.

(3) Pilots should also be aware that persons working closely with or handling pesticides should change clothes and bathe at the end of the operation, or immediately if the pesticide contacts their skin. Persons handling pesticides should wear clean work clothes daily.[5]

 According to Chapter 1 of Advisory Circular 137-1A, before being approved for certification, applicants are expected to demonstrate a knowledge of the rules and regulations pertaining to the handling of “economic poisons.”

Chapter 1 also addresses recordkeeping requirements as well as the reasons for revoking certification including “unsafe operating procedures or practices.” [6]