What ENAC published
On 14 August 2026, ENAC published AltMoC IT-UAS-2026-002 for UAS operations in agriculture, horticulture and forestry. The package includes a PDRA, a pre-filled compliance checklist, a predefined operations manual and the corresponding instructions.
Its stated purpose is to facilitate the process of obtaining an operational authorisation in the Specific category. It is not an automatic permit: operators must still demonstrate compliance with the applicable conditions and obtain authorisation whenever it is required.
Why this matters for agricultural applications
ENAC lists the dropping or spraying of substances among the examples of operations that fall within the Specific category. An agricultural service therefore involves more than selecting a drone and a product: the operation, location, surrounding environment and planned mitigations must all be assessed.
- check geographical zones and any restrictions shown on D-Flight;
- confirm consistency between the aircraft, operational scenario and operator documentation;
- assess obstacles, buildings, roads, power lines and neighbouring crops;
- plan the operation according to wind, rain and actual ground conditions.
What changes in practice
The most practical change is the availability of an already structured documentation package. It may reduce ambiguity and repetitive work, but it does not replace the technical assessment of each mission. According to ENAC, operators who had already submitted an application may also discuss with the Team Leader whether to replace their documentation and use the new pathway.
For the broader regulatory framework, operators should also consult ENAC's page on the Specific category. Aviation rules must also be coordinated with agronomic, environmental and product-specific obligations.
A clearer process helps, but a sound operation still begins with a site assessment, correct documentation and a prudent decision based on actual flight conditions.