Agricultural Operations (Agri-Drones)
The use of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) in Malaysia’s agricultural sector—primarily for precision crop spraying, seeding, and plantation monitoring—is a highly regulated activity. Governed by CAD 6011 Part II, agricultural drone operations are categorized based on risk and weight. Whether you are a smallholder or a large plantation manager, compliance with Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) standards is essential for legal and safe operation.
1. Key Regulations for Agri-Drones (CAD 6011 Part II)
To operate an agricultural drone legally in Malaysia, you must adhere to the specific standards outlined in the Civil Aviation Directives (CAD):
- Maximum Take-Off Weight (MTOW): Regulations differ for drones under 25kg (e.g., DJI Agras T25) and heavy-lift drones over 25kg (e.g., DJI Agras T50).
- Operating Altitude: Agricultural spraying is typically restricted to a maximum of 100 feet (30m) Above Ground Level (AGL).
- Visual Line of Sight (VLOS): The pilot or a visual observer must maintain constant unaided visual contact with the drone.
- Night Operations: Spraying at night is prohibited unless a Special ATF (Authorisation to Fly) is obtained with specific safety mitigations.
2. Pilot Certification: RCoC-AL
Operating a heavy agricultural drone requires more than just basic piloting skills. It requires a Remote Pilot Certificate of Competency – Agricultural Light (RCoC-AL).
- Specialized Training: Includes chemical handling safety, low-altitude maneuvering, and emergency “return-to-home” procedures for heavy payloads.
- Prerequisite: Pilots must be at least 18 years old and have completed training at a CAAM-approved RPTO (Remote Pilot Training Organisation).
3. Mandatory Permits: The Agricultural ATF
In 2026, all professional agricultural drone missions require an Authorisation to Fly (ATF) via the ASOS Portal.
- Public Liability Insurance: You must hold a policy that specifically covers Aviation Chemical Liability (covering accidental drift or spills).
- Chemical Approval: Only pesticides approved by the Pesticides Board of Malaysia (Department of Agriculture) can be used for aerial application.
- Buffer Zones: Operations must maintain a safe distance (buffer) from public roads, residential areas, and uninvolved persons to prevent chemical exposure.
4. 2026 Low-Altitude Economy Trends
As part of Malaysia’s Low-Altitude Economy roadmap, several new initiatives are being trialed:
- Swarm Operations: One pilot controlling multiple agri-drones simultaneously (requires a specific Special Category permit).
- Autonomous Flight Paths: Utilizing AI and RTK (Real-Time Kinematic) positioning for centimeter-level precision in complex terrains like hilly rubber estates.
5. Official Resources & Reference Links
- CAD 6011 Part II – Agricultural Operations: The primary rulebook for agri-drones. Download CAD 6011 Part II
- Department of Agriculture (DOA): For guidelines on approved pesticides and aerial spraying safety. Visit DOA Malaysia
- ASOS Portal: Apply for your Agricultural ATF here. Access ASOS
- CAGM 6011 Part II: Guidance material for agricultural drone operators. Download Guidance Material