Agricultural pilots are facing mounting pressure as rising fuel and fertiliser costs coincide with one of the busiest periods of the year for farm operations. The conflict in the Persian Gulf has driven up global prices for fuel and nitrogen‑based fertilisers such as urea and ammonia, prompting many aerial topdressing and spraying operators to pass increased costs on to farmers.
Agricultural Aviation Association executive officer Tony Michelle says fuel prices have surged at a critical time, with pilots consuming thousands of litres each week to meet autumn fertiliser demand. While prices for potash and phosphate fertilisers are expected to remain stable in the short term, concerns around supply and pricing for other inputs are likely to intensify later in the year.
Tony emphasised the sector’s vital role in food production and animal welfare, calling for agricultural aviation to be recognised as an essential service under national fuel allocation frameworks.