Operation SAFE

Operation S.A.F.E. (Self-regulating Application & Flight Efficiency), developed in 1981, was designed to clearly demonstrate that ag aviation recognizes its responsibility to minimize the potential for adverse health and environmental effects of agricultural chemical application.

Objective

Connect pilots and operators with trained and vetted professional analysts, providing not only education, but the opportunity to measure and assess application efficacy and mitigate drift

Means to Achieve the Objective

Operation SAFE consists of a comprehensive program of education and  professional analysis of application. The backbone of Operation SAFE is the Professional Application Analysis Clinic (Fly-In). Participating at a Fly-In involves the standardized measurement of collected samples from test passes made by an aircraft. These measurements provide relative deposition and (for liquid applications) droplet size. Operation SAFE Analysts are trained to interpret these measurements and provide the pilot or operator with recommendations for equipment adjustment (if needed) and projected in-field performance.

How to Participate

NAAA urges every operator and pilot to participate in an Operation SAFE Clinic, at a minimum, every two years. In addition to several consultants, many State and Regional Agricultural Aviation Associations regularly host Operation SAFE Clinics. There are also options for conducting your own pattern testing and consulting with a NAAREF-recognized Analyst. For more information: