NAAA’s Certification Program Given New Name – Updated Requirements Focused on Safety Coming in 2027

The Certified-Professional Aerial Applicator Safety Steward (C-PAASS) program has been renamed. Aerial applicators wishing to document their professionalism, commitment to safety, and application accuracy will now be known as a Certified Aerial Applicator.

In 2027, the requirements for becoming a Certified Aerial Applicator will also be updated. The changes are designed to further improve the safety of the aerial application industry by encouraging ag aviators to take advantage of flight instructors or simulator training. The 2027 Certified Aerial Applicator requirements will be based on NAAA’s Agricultural Airman Guidelines (AAG). The AAG were created to serve as a resource to assist ag aviation operators and pilots when preparing for a Part 137 Knowledge and Skills Test or endorsement. They also serve as a consistent and readily available source for ag aviation safety education and training guidance.

Here are the highlights of the certification requirements coming in 2027:

• Certification will become biennial instead of annual.
• Requires two credit hours of either flying or simulator training.
• Requires six credit hours of ag aviation safety training that can include more flying/simulator training or pre-approved in-person or online safety courses at NAAA’s Education Center.
• Participation in Operation S.A.F.E., or alternatively, two environmental professionalism courses on NAAA’s online Education Center.
• NAAA membership, state/regional ag aviation association membership, and PAASS participation will still be required every year.

Additional information with more specific details about the upcoming Certified Aerial Applicator requirements for 2027 will be released in the future. You can still become a Certified Aerial Applicator in 2026 using the current requirements found here.