Agricultural aircraft
|
|
An agricultural aircraft is an aircraft that has been built or converted for agricultural use -- usually aerial spraying of pesticides or fertiliser. In this role, they are commonly known as "crop dusters." Agricultural aircraft are also used for hydroseeding.
The most common agricultural aircraft are fixed-wing, but helicopters are also used. Autogyros have been tested for aerial application as well.
Purpose-built agricultural fixed-wing aircraft are typically small, simple, and rugged. Many have spraying systems built into their wings, and pumps are usually driven by wind turbines. In the case of helicopters, tanks are placed on or outside the body of the aircraft, while a spray rig, extending outward to the sides, is attached well below the main rotor blades. Hydroseeding is often done by helicopters using tanks and drop systems much like those used for aerial firefighting.
See also
|
Lists of Aircraft | Aircraft manufacturers | Aircraft engines | Aircraft engine manufacturers Airports | Airlines | Air forces | Aircraft weapons | Missiles | Timeline of aviation |