The Heaviest UAS Ever Has Received FAA Authorization for Commercial Use: Pyka Crop Spraying Drone

Pyka Pelican Spray

Pyka Pelican Spray Receives FAA Authorization for Commercial Use

by DRONELIFE Staff Writer Ian J. McNabb

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Pyka Inc., a UAV designer and manufacturer based in Oakland, California, announced that their Pelican Spray crop-protection aircraft has received FAA approval. With a gross weight of 1125 lbs, the highly automated UAS is the heaviest to ever receive FAA authorization for commercial use in the United States. In conjunction with an agricultural aircraft operator certificate, farmers can start using the Pelican to enhance operations.  The Pelican is powered by four electric engines totaling 100kw and features swappable batteries and a carbon airframe.

Pyka highlights the dangers of agricultural flight in their press release- last year, the National Transportation Safety Board reported 54 aircraft accidents in agricultural operations, resulting in 13 deaths. The Pelican Spray is more environmentally friendly…