en.Wedoany.com Reported - The U.S. Department of Agriculture has recently ordered three Cessna Caravan aircraft from Textron Aviation to support pest control programs affecting citrus crops in southern Texas, with delivery expected in 2027. These aircraft will be operated by the USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) to transport and release sterile insects along the Rio Grande River.

This technique reduces populations of pests such as fruit flies by releasing insects that cannot reproduce, eliminating the need for chemical agents. It aims to protect orchards, reduce agricultural losses, and safeguard fruit production. The Cessna Caravan was selected for its payload capacity, range, and ability to operate from short or unpaved runways. The aircraft will be equipped with specialized systems for the controlled release of sterile insects over large agricultural areas. APHIS currently uses Cessna Stationair aircraft for similar missions, and the addition of the Caravan will enhance the agency's operational capacity in biological pest control programs.

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