Pyka and Synerjet Expand Autonomous Agricultural Aviation in Brazil

Pyka’s Strategic Partnership with Synerjet: A Landmark 60-Aircraft Order Signals Major Expansion in Autonomous Agricultural Aviation

The autonomous agricultural aviation industry reached a significant milestone when Pyka, a leader in commercial autonomous electric aircraft, announced a firm orders from Synerjet for 60 Pelican autonomous crop protection aircraft. This deal is one of the largest single orders of its kind and reflects the growing global interest in precision agriculture technologies.

Formalized at Pyka’s headquarters in Alameda, California, the agreement positions Synerjet as Pyka’s exclusive distributor in Brazil. The partnership aims to provide sales, training, and technical support to Brazilian growers, marking a significant step in the adoption of autonomous aerial systems in Latin America’s agricultural sector.

With the agricultural drone market experiencing rapid growth and projections indicating continued expansion, this collaboration could reshape how crop protection is conducted in the region. The Pelican 2 aircraft, central to this deal, represents a leap forward in aerial application technology, combining autonomy, electric propulsion, and operational efficiency.

The Evolution of Pyka and Autonomous Agricultural Aviation

Pyka was founded with the vision of transforming aviation through safe, sustainable, and cost-effective solutions. Its focus on autonomous electric aircraft has led to the development of proprietary technologies including flight control software, carbon composite airframes, and high-density batteries specifically designed for agricultural use.

The company’s first major regulatory milestone came in 2023 when the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approved the commercial use of Pyka’s Pelican Spray aircraft. Weighing 1,125 pounds, it became the largest unmanned aircraft system (UAS) approved for commercial agricultural operations in the U.S. at the time.

Building on this, Pyka unveiled the Pelican 2 in early 2025. It features a 300-liter payload and a work rate of up to 90 hectares per hour, making it the world’s most productive autonomous agricultural aircraft. The FAA’s subsequent authorization of the Pelican 2 reinforced Pyka’s leadership in this emerging sector.

Technological Advancements in the Pelican 2

The Pelican 2 integrates a four-motor electric propulsion system, offering enhanced reliability and power. It is equipped with five hot-swappable lithium-ion battery sets, allowing continuous operation and minimizing downtime during critical spraying periods.

Advanced LIDAR and RADAR systems enable fully autonomous day-and-night spraying. This extends operational hours beyond the limits of traditional piloted aircraft, which are typically restricted to daylight due to visibility and safety concerns.

The aircraft’s spray system supports an 18-meter swath width and offers multiple boom configurations, including hydraulic nozzles and electric rotary atomizers. Real-time droplet size adjustment further enhances application precision, reducing chemical waste and environmental impact.

“With a 300-liter payload and 24/7 autonomous operation, the Pelican 2 sets a new benchmark for aerial crop protection,” Pyka

The Strategic Synerjet Partnership

Synerjet, an established aviation solutions provider in Latin America, brings regional expertise and a wide distribution network to the partnership. Known for representing brands like Pilatus, Leonardo, and Honeywell, Synerjet is well-positioned to support Pyka’s expansion in Brazil.

Under the agreement, Synerjet will handle all aspects of customer engagement, including sales, training, and on-ground technical support. This comprehensive service model is essential for ensuring successful adoption of autonomous systems in a market as large and complex as Brazil.

Executives from both companies emphasized the strategic importance of this partnership. Pyka’s CEO, Michael Norcia, highlighted Brazil’s role as a global agricultural leader, while Synerjet’s CEO, Fabio Rebello, praised the Pelican 2 for its efficiency and user-friendly design.

Brazil as a Growth Market

Brazil is one of the largest agricultural producers globally, with expansive operations in soybeans, corn, sugarcane, and cotton. The scale and diversity of its agricultural landscape make it an ideal market for advanced aerial application technologies like the Pelican 2.

Brazilian growers have shown a strong appetite for innovation, particularly technologies that improve productivity and reduce operational costs. The autonomous capabilities and electric propulsion of Pyka’s aircraft align well with these priorities.

By leveraging Synerjet’s local presence and expertise, Pyka can navigate regulatory frameworks and operational challenges more effectively, accelerating the adoption of its aircraft in the region.

Market Dynamics and Industry Trends

The global agricultural drone market is experiencing rapid expansion, driven by rising food demand, labor shortages, and the need for sustainable farming practices. Analysts project compound annual growth rates exceeding 20% through the early 2030s.

Estimates suggest the market could grow from $5.86 billion in 2025 to as much as $31.88 billion by 2033. Key growth drivers include the integration of AI, improved battery technologies, and government support for digital agriculture initiatives.

In Brazil, these trends are particularly pronounced. The country’s vast arable land and progressive approach to agricultural technology adoption make it a prime candidate for large-scale deployment of autonomous aircraft systems.

“Brazil is a global powerhouse in agricultural production, and we’re proud to support its growers with technology that’s been proven in the field,” Michael Norcia, CEO of Pyka

Conclusion

The Pyka-Synerjet partnership marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of autonomous agricultural aviation. The 60-aircraft order not only validates Pyka’s technology but also sets the stage for broader adoption of electric autonomous aircraft in large-scale farming operations.

As the agricultural drone market continues to grow, partnerships like this will be instrumental in scaling new technologies globally. With advanced features, regulatory approvals, and strong regional support, the Pelican 2 is well-positioned to become a cornerstone of precision agriculture in Brazil and beyond.

FAQ

What is the Pelican 2 aircraft?
The Pelican 2 is Pyka’s second-generation autonomous electric agricultural aircraft with a 300-liter payload and 24/7 operational capability.

Who is Synerjet?
Synerjet is a Latin American aviation solutions provider and exclusive distributor of Pilatus Aircraft, also representing Leonardo and Honeywell.

Why is Brazil an important market for Pyka?
Brazil’s large-scale agriculture and openness to innovation make it a strategic market for deploying autonomous crop protection systems.

Sources

• PR Newswire
• FAA
• Persistence Market Research
• Markets and Markets
• GlobeNewswire