Who is responsible for certifying agricultural aircraft operations?

The responsibility for certifying agricultural aircraft operations falls under the jurisdiction of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The FAA establishes regulations and standards that must be met by pilots and aircraft involved in agricultural spraying and related aerial operations. This is crucial because ensuring safety and compliance with aviation standards is necessary for the protection of the environment, the safety of the public, and the effectiveness of agricultural practices.

The FAA's role involves not only the certification of pilots to ensure they have the necessary training and qualifications but also the certification of the aircraft used in these operations to ensure they meet safety standards. This oversight is integral to maintaining safe practices within the aviation sector, particularly in specialized areas like aerial application.

Other agencies such as the USDA, EPA, and state governments may have regulatory roles related to agricultural practices, pesticide usage, and environmental concerns, but the specific certification of aircraft operations is definitively under the purview of the FAA.