The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal (USDA) and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has ordered three Cessna Caravan aircraft to support aerial pest control operations in southern Texas.
Textron Aviation said the aircraft are scheduled for delivery in 2027 and will be used in sterile insect release missions along the Rio Grande region, an area vulnerable to agricultural pests such as fruit flies that can damage citrus production.
Under the program, the aircraft disperse sterilized insects over affected areas to reduce pest populations and limit reproduction without the use of pesticides.
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APHIS currently uses smaller Cessna Stationair aircraft for similar operations, but the Caravan’s larger payload and longer endurance are expected to expand operational capacity and coverage.
The aircraft will receive specialized release systems designed for low-altitude distribution flights over agricultural areas.
The Cessna Caravan is widely used in utility and special mission roles because of its ability to operate from short and unprepared airstrips, as well as its relatively low operating costs.
