The US drone industry is booming, but navigating airspace regulations can feel like flying through a maze. This is where the LAANC Authorization comes in – a revolutionary tool that simplifies airspace access for drone pilots.
With LAANC authorization, you can fly legally within controlled airspace, eliminating the time-consuming manual authorization process and allowing you to focus on what matters most: safe and efficient drone operations.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll discuss LAANC, its importance, operational procedures, the application process, and essential guidelines for drone pilots.
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ToggleLAANC, standing for Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability, is a joint venture between the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and private industry. Its primary role is to facilitate the integration of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) into the national airspace.
LAANC offers three key benefits for drone pilots:
LAANC operates through the UAS Data Exchange, a system that enables the exchange of airspace data between the FAA and FAA-approved companies, known as UAS Service Suppliers (USS). These suppliers offer the necessary desktop applications and mobile apps that enable the use of LAANC services. LAANC offers a streamlined process for obtaining airspace authorizations, especially near airports.
LAANC streamlines the process of obtaining airspace authorizations by automating applications and approvals. You can submit the requests through systems provided by FAA-approved UAS Service Suppliers (USS).
These requests are then cross-referenced with various sources within the FAA UAS Data Exchange, including UAS Facility Maps, Special Use Airspace data, details on Airports and Airspace Classes, as well as Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) and Notices to Air Missions (NOTAMs). Approvals are granted almost instantly.
When a drone pilot submits an authorization request, the LAANC system cross-references various FAA databases, including UAS Facility Maps, Special Use Airspace data, airport and airspace class details, Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs), and Notices to Air Missions (NOTAMs). Approvals are often granted almost instantly.
It’s important to note that LAANC only handles airspace authorizations. Pilots are still responsible for checking NOTAMs, assessing weather conditions, and complying with all other airspace restrictions.
New Applicant Onboarding Process Timeline* | Source: FAA
*A slight adjustment may be made due to calendar shifts from year to year. The exact dates will be published on the LAANC website.
The New Applicant Onboarding Process for LAANC is a five-step process:
This comprehensive process ensures that all approved LAANC USSs meet the necessary standards and requirements for safe and effective operation within the LAANC framework.
Source: EASA
LAANC Authorization Request
Drone operators intending to fly at altitudes below 400 feet in controlled airspace near airports must obtain an airspace authorization from the FAA beforehand.
LAANC is accessible to those flying under the Small UAS Rule Part 107 or as Recreational Flyers, via FAA Approved LAANC UAS Service Suppliers.
LAANC usage involves two main approaches:
Part 107 pilots must register their drone and possess a Remote Pilot Certificate.
Recreational Flyers are required to register their drone and complete the Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) before their initial flight.
For operations in controlled airspace necessitating both a waiver and airspace authorization, applications for both must be submitted through the FAA’s DroneZone.
Source: FAA
The listed companies have fulfilled the necessary technical requirements and have formalized agreements with the FAA to offer LAANC Services:
Approved Service Supplier | Part 107 Near — Real Time Authorization | Part 107 Further Coordination | Exception for Recreational Flying/Section 44809 | IOS App | Android App | Desktop |
AirMatrix | Y | Y | Y | – | – | Y |
Airspace Link | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y |
Aloft | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y |
AstraUTM | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | – |
AutoPylot | Y | – | Y | Y | Y | – |
Avision | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y |
eTT Aviation | Y | Y | Y | – | – | Y |
FlightReady | Y | Y | Y | Y | – | – |
UASidekick | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y |
Wing | Y | – | Y | Y | Y | – |
*Y = publicly available service
UAS Facility Maps | Source: Aloft.AI
Applicants to the LAANC USS should be aware of the following:
For more information, you can check out this document.
LAANC typically provides near real-time approvals for airspace authorizations. This means that once a request is submitted, the approval process is usually completed within a few minutes in most cases. Sometimes it may take more – anywhere between a few hours to a couple of days.
LAANC is available to both Part 107 certified pilots and recreational flyers.
To get LAANC clearance, pilots need to submit an airspace authorization request through a LAANC provider, using either a mobile app or desktop application provided by an FAA-approved UAS Service Supplier (USS).
LAANC authorization is revolutionizing drone operations by simplifying airspace access, enhancing safety, and opening up new opportunities for pilots and the industry. By understanding the LAANC process and guidelines, drone pilots can navigate FAA regulations confidently and safely.
For more information on LAANC authorization and FAA regulations, visit the official FAA website or consult with a trusted industry resource.
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