What happens when airspeed is increased without changing the spray output in aerial application?

When the airspeed during aerial application is increased without changing the spray output, the amount of pesticide that is effectively distributed per unit area decreases. This occurs because the increased speed causes the droplets of pesticide to spread over a larger distance in a given amount of time, resulting in a lower concentration of the pesticide on the surface being treated.

To put it simply, as the aircraft flies faster, the same volume of pesticide that is being sprayed covers a larger area. Thus, the application rate – which is the amount of pesticide active ingredient per acre – effectively diminishes. This is a critical concept in aerial application as it highlights the importance of balancing airspeed and spray output to ensure effective pest control. By maintaining awareness of this relationship during operations, an aerial applicator can achieve optimal application rates that maximize the effectiveness of pesticide treatments.