UAS Exemption for Agricultural Services Over 55 lbs

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is reviewing a petition for exemption filed by Rasmussen Aerial Spraying LLC. The petition seeks authorization to conduct commercial agricultural services using Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) weighing 55 pounds or more. This exemption would operate under the special authority granted by 49 U.S.C. § 44807 and 14 C.F.R. Part 11, which governs exemptions for certain unmanned aircraft operations. The applicant has stated that operational manuals will be provided upon request.

This consultation presents an opportunity for interested parties to comment on the potential exemption. Regulated entities, particularly those in the agricultural sector considering or currently using UAS, should review the petition and consider submitting comments to the FAA by the specified deadline. The FAA's decision on this petition could set a precedent for similar exemptions, impacting the operational capabilities and regulatory landscape for heavier agricultural UAS. Failure to comment may result in the FAA proceeding without considering relevant industry perspectives.