What is the main advantage of using helicopters for aerial application?

The main advantage of using helicopters for aerial application is their ability to hover and maneuver in tight spaces. This capability allows helicopters to operate effectively in areas that might be difficult to access with fixed-wing aircraft. For instance, when applying pesticides or fertilizers to crops that are densely planted or have irregular shapes, helicopters can precisely target specific areas, ensuring an even application and minimizing waste.

Their hovering capability also allows for better control and adjustment during the application process, leading to increased efficiency and accuracy. This is particularly important in precision agriculture, where the correct amount of input is crucial for maximizing crop yield and minimizing environmental impact.

In contrast, other options like higher payload capacity and faster travel speed are generally more characteristic of fixed-wing aircraft. While helicopters may have lower operating costs in some situations, these factors do not significantly surpass the compelling advantages that their maneuverability and hovering capabilities provide in the context of aerial application.