At AutoSpray Systems, we're proud to lead the development, approval, and deployment of drone-based pesticide applications (Drone Spraying) in the UK. From field trials to regulatory data creation, we’re shaping the future of aerial crop protection by working closely with pesticide manufacturers, agronomists, regulators, and farmers.

Drone Spraying Pesticides in the UK – Safe, Approved & Efficient Applications

  • Setting the Standard – Regulatory Data That Moves the Industry Forward

    We’ve been instrumental in building regulatory pathways for unmanned aerial spraying under the UK’s PPP (Plant Protection Product) framework.

    By generating standardised data on droplet drift, application accuracy, and risk mitigation, we’ve supported the creation of regulatory mechanisms that make drone-based spraying legally viable, safe, and scalable.

  • Industry Collaboration – Working with Manufacturers to Adapt Products for Aerial Use

    AutoSpray Systems works directly with major pesticide producers to adapt and evaluate their products for drone-specific use cases.

    This ensures that formulations maintain efficacy when applied from the air and that label extensions or EAMUs (Extensions of Authorisation for Minor Use) are grounded in science, compliance, and agronomic performance.

  • Regulatory Engagement – Working with CRD, CAA, and DEFRA

    Our team has worked closely with the HSE Chemicals Regulation Division (CRD), the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), and DEFRA, helping to bridge the gap between new drone technologies and existing pesticide laws.

    We’ve developed compliant aerial application plans, risk assessments, and drift models that regulators can trust—ensuring safety, traceability, and environmental responsibility.

Current Drone Spraying Authorisations

  • First UK Drone Application of an Insecticide (DiPEL)

    AutoSpray Systems also secured the first UK permit for drone-based aerial application of an insecticide – the biological product DiPEL. This milestone showcases the safe, targeted use of Bacillus thuringiensis-based controls by drone, with major potential in high-value and organic cropping systems.

    We are actively developing a full commercial approval pathway to support the broader use of DiPEL in drone-based integrated pest management programmes.

  • Slug Pellet Milestone – First UK Aerial Application of Sluxx HP by Certis Belchim

    We are proud to have delivered the first-ever drone-based aerial application of slug pellets in the UK, using Sluxx HP from Certis Belchim.

    This groundbreaking trial marks a key turning point in slug control using UAVs. Ongoing work in 2024 is focused on generating the required efficacy and safety data to support a commercial permit in 2025, enabling broad adoption across UK arable and horticultural systems.

Get in touch with AutoSpray today.

Whether you want to fly drones, apply products, or get a pesticide approved, we’ve got the expertise and authorisations to help you make it happen.