UAS Aerial Applications and Regulations

Uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) are transforming agriculture. K-State Salina, a leader in UAS education, offers a hands-on, two-day in-person course designed to give you the expertise to safely and effectively conduct aerial spray applications.

Learn regulations, operations, and safety protocols and gain the confidence to operate spray drones, implement best practices for precision agriculture or even manage a UAS pesticide business.

Whether you’re an agriculture professional, farmer, or simply curious about aerial spraying, this course opens the door to exciting professional opportunities and cutting-edge skills in modern farming.

Why Choose K-State?

In this two-day course, you’ll gain practical, hands-on experience in everything from drone setup and maintenance to preflight inspections, compass and flowmeter calibration. You’ll also master both manual and automated spray missions using multiple spray types, which equips you with the skills to excel in precision agriculture and aerial spraying operations.

Course Dates and Registration

• March 9 and 10, 2026 | 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. | $499
  • Registration deadline: March 2
    
    
• May 28 and 29, 2026 | 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. | $499
  • Registration deadline: May 21

 

What to Expect

Upon completion of this course, learners will be able to confidently plan and execute legally compliant aerial application operations while ensuring personal and aircraft safety. Specific topics include:

• Attendees are strongly encouraged to have a Remote Pilot Certificate or have completed the sUAS Commercial Remote Pilot Training program before enrolling. If you are considering this training without being certified, please contact us for training options.
• Overview of Part 107 regulations, Section 44807 exemptions, Part 137 requirements, and associated COA limitations
• FAA reporting and registration processes UAS under and over 55 pounds
• Legal and procedural requirements for state-level pesticide applicator licensing, including UAS-specific categories and business obligations
• Aircraft acquisition, inventory management, and adherence to manufacturer-recommended safety and operational limitations.

• Course Details

  All courses are held in Salina, Kansas, unless otherwise noted. Registration is required a minimum of one week before the course start date.

  Payment by credit card is required at the time of registration. Course fee includes flight instruction. Meals, travel and lodging are not included in the registration fee and are the responsibility of the attendee.

• Traveling to Salina

  Get directions to the K-State Salina campus. Visit our travel page for suggestions on getting to and staying in Salina.