Agricultural Pilots

Employers

Approximately 52,750 commercial pilots (a category that includes agricultural pilots) are employed in the United States, but only a small number are agricultural pilots. According to the National Agricultural Aviation Association (NAAA), there are approximately 1,560 aerial application businesses in the United States, and 87 percent of the owners of these businesses are also pilots. Aerial application operations are found in 45 states—all but Connecticut, Hawaii, Rhode Island, Vermont, and West Virginia.

Agricultural pilots find the most work in California and the southern states, where the crop-growing season lasts the longest. They also find some work with northern crops and in forests of the northeastern and western states. Federal and state government departments also employ agricultural pilots to assist with environmental, conservation, and preservation needs.

Starting Out

It is common for people to enter this field after gaining experience in the agricultural industry itself, working on farms, and learning about crop production while developing their flying skills. Others enter with flying as their first love and are drawn to the challenge of agricultural aviation. Once pilots have completed their training, they may find that contacts made through aviation schools lead to job openings. Those who have the financial means can begin by opening their own business. Equipment, however, is very expensive. So, several people begin working for large aerial application companies before they strike out independently.