Drone Pilots: What You Need to Know About Flying in Controlled Airspace with LAANC

Flying a drone in controlled airspace, especially near airports, comes with strict rules, and getting authorization from the FAA is a must if you're flying at or below 400 feet. In the past, this meant going through the FAA’s DroneZone website and waiting for approval, which could take days. But thanks to a collaboration between the FAA and the drone industry, the process is now much faster and more efficient through a system called LAANC: Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability.

LAANC is an automated solution that lets drone pilots request and receive near real-time airspace authorizations. It plays a big role in integrating drones into the National Airspace System (NAS) safely and efficiently. Instead of filing paperwork and waiting, you can now use an FAA-approved UAS Service Supplier (USS) app, available on mobile or desktop, to apply for airspace access in just minutes. These apps connect to the FAA’s UAS Data Exchange, which automatically checks your request against current airspace data, including UAS facility maps, temporary flight restrictions (TFRs), special use airspace, NOTAMs, and more.

If everything checks out, you’ll get your authorization almost instantly. You usually don’t have to contact the control tower unless your authorization specifically requires it. Whether you’re a certified Part 107 pilot or a recreational flyer, LAANC makes getting into the air faster and easier than ever.

There are a few things to keep in mind. You can apply for authorization up to 90 days before your flight, but submitting your request at least one or two days in advance is a good idea to help ensure air traffic controllers are aware of your operation. If you’re a Part 107 pilot and need to fly above the standard ceiling listed on a UAS Facility Map (but still under 400 feet), you can request something called “further coordination.” These requests are reviewed manually by the FAA and take longer to process. Also, if your operation requires both a waiver and an airspace authorization, you’ll need to apply for both through the FAA’s DroneZone site.

Currently, LAANC is available at 597 LAANC-enabled facilities and over 828 airports across the country. If the airport near your planned flight isn’t LAANC-enabled, you’ll still need to use the DroneZone system to request access. And remember, LAANC only grants you airspace authorization. You’re still responsible for checking weather conditions, current NOTAMs, and any applicable airspace restrictions before taking off.

To get started, you’ll need to use an FAA-approved USS app. You can find a complete list here: bit.ly/LAANCsuppliers

LAANC was built through a public-private partnership focused on improving safety and efficiency, and it’s quickly become a favorite tool for drone pilots. It’s your fast pass to the sky—just be sure to use it responsibly and fly safe.