To help mitigate off-target spraying while maintaining productivity, the distance between the outermost nozzles should not exceed what percent of the wing or rotor span of the aircraft?

The correct percentage for the distance between the outermost nozzles not to exceed in relation to the wing or rotor span of the aircraft is 75%. Maintaining this distance is critical for effective aerial application because if the nozzles are too far apart, it increases the likelihood of off-target spraying, which can lead to environmental contamination and ineffective pesticide application. The closer the nozzles are to each other relative to the span of the wings or rotor, the more consistent and uniform the application pattern can be, enhancing both the efficiency of the application and minimizing drift.

The spacing guideline is established to promote optimal coverage of the target area while ensuring that the spray is contained within the designated field. This balance helps protect non-target areas, such as waterways or neighboring crops, from unintended exposure to chemicals, aligning with both regulatory requirements and good agricultural practices. Thus, adhering to this guideline directly contributes to more responsible use of aerial application techniques.