Which application pattern helps to avoid flying through spray from a previous swath?

The race track pattern is designed to minimize the potential for the aircraft to encounter spray from previous swaths. This application method involves flying in a continuous loop around the application area, creating a consistent motion that allows the pilot to maintain a safe distance from recently treated areas. By flying in this pattern, the aircraft moves in a way that prevents it from overlapping the spray paths of previous applications, ensuring better pesticide distribution and reducing the risk of cross-contamination.

In contrast, other patterns, such as back and forth or alternate swath patterns, may lead the aircraft to fly through areas that have already been treated, especially if turns are made in a way that leads to retreading those same areas. The upslope pattern, while beneficial in certain geographic contexts, does not inherently address the issue of avoiding previously sprayed swaths as effectively as the race track pattern does.