The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has put forward a proposal that could waive a specific endorsement for some truckers in the agricultural sector.
What's up: This plan would let Class A CDL holders transport up to 1,000 gallons of jet fuel for farming without needing a hazardous materials (HM) endorsement.
- This move aims to slash costs for ag-aviation operators and the truckers who mix, load, and deliver the fuel.
- FMCSA points out a similar waiver already exists for diesel fuel haulers within the same industry.
Why it matters: Trucks play a vital role in agriculture, helping keep aircraft close to fields to cut down on fuel use and improve efficiency.
- Without enough drivers, operations might slow, burning more fuel and costing more per day.
- Ag operators argue this change could also help tackle the driver shortage reported in FMCSA's proposal.
The proposal could reduce costs related to obtaining HM endorsements, about $261 per driver.
Comments and further considerations on this move are ongoing, impacting future operations for many involved in agricultural aviation.