Special Use Missions are defined as what type of flights?

Special Use Missions are characterized by non-routine flights that necessitate specific qualifications and training due to their complexity and the unique challenges they present. This definition encompasses a variety of operations such as aerial applications (like crop dusting), firefighting, search and rescue, and other missions that might involve hazardous environments or risk factors not found in standard aviation operations.

These missions often require pilots and crew to have specialized knowledge or skills that go beyond those needed for routine commercial flights. For instance, flying in controlled airspace with different operational protocols, handling specialized equipment, or coordinating with various agencies during complex operations are all aspects of special use missions. In contrast, routine commercial flights, aerobatic training, or standard passenger services do not have the same level of complexity or specific requirements, which sets special use missions apart as a distinct category in aviation.