Vfr 135

[T-REX]

You are not drectly flying for the USDA, theyre just the ones that you submit the work to. I worked for a contrator who I dnt want to name bc i plan on doing some pt work for them over the summer.
The largest company i know of doing aerial imaging is Landcare Aviation in Utica, NY. They have about 20 172s and some 182s and twins. www.landvue.com Im not sure if they are hiring at the moment, but the peak flying season is from about June to September, so its worth a shot.

Before you here about it from someone else, this company flies coast to coast. You will probably attend training then be traveling for weeks or months. But its flight time and a few bucks when theres not many jobs out there. Good luck.

 

[professor]

Just my 2 pennies, but I too lack the 1200 for IFR 135, but I happen to instruct at an FBO that also does charter work. I dont get a whole lot of charter but it is nice to go X-country hang out and get paid everyonce in a while. So you could always look for Companys that do both and gain some 135 time.
Prof....

 

[T-REX]

I agree with professor, alot of my friends did that and i wish i did too. The best part is if you keep yourself out of trouble you can usually get a job in the charter department when your times are up.