Who requires a current Class II Medical certificate for pilots making aerial pesticide applications?

A current Class II Medical certificate is required for pilots making aerial pesticide applications by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This requirement is in place to ensure that pilots meet certain physical and mental health standards necessary for operating aircraft safely. The Class II Medical certificate assesses the pilot's overall health, including vision, hearing, and the absence of medical conditions that could impair their ability to fly. This regulation is important because aerial application of pesticides occurs in environments where precision and safety are crucial, and any impairment could not only pose risks to the pilot but also to agriculture, public health, and the environment.

While organizations like the Environmental Protection Agency, state transportation departments, and the Department of Defense may have regulations affecting aerial applications, they do not set the medical certification standards for pilots. The FAA is the primary authority governing aviation safety and pilot qualifications, which includes the health assessments necessary to ensure safe operation of aircraft during pesticide application.