The Agricultural Drone Industry Insight Report 2021 (DJI Agriculture, published 2022) quantifies the benefits of drones versus crewed aircraft and ground machines. As an authorized DJI Agriculture dealer in Vietnam, 115Drone summarizes the standout figures — useful context for growers and fleets weighing an investment.
Drone vs agricultural aircraft
A crewed aircraft (e.g. the AS350 helicopter) costs millions of euros, needs 2 pilots and at least 4 ground crew, runs on fuel and doesn't spray precisely. An Agras drone costs a small fraction, runs with one operator, on battery, and sprays precisely. (Note: these are international report figures — for Vietnam pricing see products or contact us.)
Precise spraying, less drift
Drones fly low (about 1.5–3.5 m above the canopy) and slow (about 3–7 m/s), with dynamic nozzle and flow control, so they drift less than high-speed aircraft. Paired with multispectral/NDVI prescription maps, a drone sprays only where needed.
Measurable environmental benefits
- Carbon: replacing diesel ground machines with drones cuts about 5.11 kg CO₂/ha.
- Water: low-volume spraying saves about 44 L of water/ha versus manual methods.
- Pesticide efficiency: 49.1% (rice), 57.1% (wheat), 52.7% (corn) — over 10% higher than a knapsack sprayer.
Lower risk for operators
Under the "human-aircraft separation" principle, the pilot doesn't ride the machine, avoiding crash risk and chemical exposure. Radar and terrain-following enable safe flight on slopes.
What it means for Vietnam
The figures reinforce the investment case: drones are far cheaper, need fewer people and are eco-friendly — a fit for Mekong Delta rice and Central Highlands orchards/hills. For the broader trend picture, see global ag drone trends.
115Drone is with you
Advice on the right machine, pilot training under Decree 288, service and genuine warranty. Contact 115Drone for advice.
Figures from the Agricultural Drone Industry Insight Report 2021 (DJI Agriculture, published 2022); adapted for the Vietnamese context. 115Drone — authorized DJI Agriculture dealer.
