The FAA proposed a $289,215 civil penalty against Gorge Drones of Stevenson, Washington, for alleged unauthorized unmanned aircraft system (UAS) operations. According to the FAA, Gorge Drones conducted 15 drone operations to dispense fertilizer between March and April 2025 without holding the required agricultural aircraft operator certificate. The agency also alleges that the aircraft was not registered with the FAA and did not have the required airworthiness certificate.
The action highlights the regulatory requirements applicable to commercial agricultural UAS operations. 14 CFR Part 137 governs aircraft operations involving the dispensing of substances for purposes including plant nourishment, soil treatment, pest control, and other agricultural activities. FAA guidance requires operators conducting covered agricultural operations to obtain a Part 137 Agricultural Aircraft Operator Certificate and meet applicable UAS registration and operational authorization requirements.
The proposed penalty also comes as the FAA continues heightened enforcement of unauthorized UAS operations and emphasizes operator responsibility for complying with applicable federal aviation requirements.