Aerotoscana has unveiled a new video demonstrating the groundbreaking methods the Robinson R66 helicopter is transforming crop protection in Chile. Drawing inspiration from RHC's "Climb Higher" video series, the video showcases how Aerotoscana employs the R66 to efficiently dry cherries following rainfall, maintaining their delicate texture and flavour.
Aerotoscana's mission is to improve crop protection by utilizing the downwash from the R66's rotors to eliminate excess moisture. This approach makes the R66 more suitable for sensitive agricultural tasks like cherry drying, where other helicopters pose a greater risk of damaging the crops.
When rain threatens the fruit harvest, in this case, cherries, the helicopter emerges as the most efficient solution to dry the fruit and prevent damage.
It is flown at an approximate height of 50 feet, maintaining a speed between 5 to 10 knots. It is very important to be in continuous communication with the field manager who must be on the ground verifying the drying and following drying protocols.
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Apart from the Robinson R66, no other aircraft can manage this type of mission without higher costs and further damage to the crops,” said Felipe Reitz, founder of Aerotoscana.“
Aerotoscana was born from a passion for aviation, and our partnership with Robinson Helicopter allows us to offer our clients the most advanced and reliable aerial solutions available,” added Maria Jesús Ardura, marketing manager of Aerotoscana.
Chile's agriculture industry faces unique challenges due to its climate, particularly during the rainy season. Excess moisture can lead to spoilage and reduce the quality of cherries, and traditional drying methods can be time-consuming and labour-intensive. Aerotoscana's R66 helicopter offers a more efficient and productive solution due to its:
Compact size: Allowing for landings in hard-to-reach locations within orchards.
Enhanced safety features: Providing a secure and reliable platform for aerial operations.
Low operating costs: Making it an economically viable solution for farmers.
Advanced systems: Enabling precise and efficient aerial drying techniques.
“The R66's versatility and credibility make it an ideal platform for a wide range of aerial applications, including precision agriculture,” said David Smith, president and CEO of Robinson Helicopter Company. “The positive impact achieved by Aerotoscana in the Chilean agricultural sector underscores the power of technology and innovation to overcome critical challenges."
Agricultural enterprises globally are increasingly adopting Robinson helicopters to enhance operational efficiency, thanks to their unparalleled reliability, cost-effectiveness, and ease of maintenance. From South America to South Australia, these helicopters have become essential for a range of tasks, including crop dusting, fertilization, livestock herding, and aerial surveying. Their sturdy design and straightforward operation make them perfect for challenging agricultural settings, while their competitive pricing and simple maintenance routines ensure they remain economical and reduce downtime.
