Crop dusting injuries

Abstract

1. 1. A considerable number of youthful pilots are permanently disabled or killed each summer as a result of crashes of low flying aircraft engaged in spraying or dusting crops. Four such cases are described. 2. 2. The Civil Aeronautics Board has the power to regulate these aerial crop control activities through its authority to license pilots and planes, to prescribe safety rules, to inspect aircraft and equipment and to require a report of all accidents. 3. 3. Some of the crashes which occur appear to be preventable and it is probable that the severity of the injuries might be reduced by more rigorous regulation. 4. 4. The following specific proposals are made for greater safety: 4.1. (a) Requirements for licensing of pilots who wish to engage in crop dusting activities should include training and experience with the low level flying maneuvers peculiar to this activity. 4.2. (b) The use of safety devices, such as a shoulder harness and crash helmet, which have proved their worth in commercial and military aviation should be made obligatory. 4.3. (c) Overloading of aircraft with chemicals should be discouraged by setting more conservative levels for authorized loads and enforcing stiff penalties for violations. 4.4. (d) Periodic mechanical inspections should be made at more frequent intervals and be irrespective of hours flown.