Drone Airspace Authorization and LAANC Awareness

Key Hazards

• Entering controlled airspace without required authorization
• Relying on an outdated screenshot or previous flight approval
• Flying above an authorized altitude or outside approved boundaries
• Missing temporary flight restrictions or other airspace changes
• Assuming LAANC approval removes other operating requirements
• Launching from a familiar site without rechecking current conditions

2–3 Minute Talk Script

Airspace must be evaluated for every drone flight, even when the crew has operated at the same location before. Airport activity, temporary restrictions, authorization limits, and other conditions can change.

Part 107 pilots planning to fly in controlled airspace near airports generally need FAA airspace authorization before takeoff. Authorization may be available through an FAA-approved LAANC service supplier or through FAA DroneZone when LAANC is not available or further coordination is required.

LAANC can provide near-real-time authorization for eligible operations at or below published facility-map altitudes. Approval is not automatic for every location, altitude, time, or mission.

The pilot should read the full authorization and understand the approved area, altitude, date, time, duration, and operating conditions. A map pin or confirmation screen alone may not show every limitation.

An airspace authorization does not replace the other requirements of the operation. Visual line of sight, aircraft condition, people on the ground, weather, Remote ID, night requirements, and temporary restrictions must still be addressed.

Temporary Flight Restrictions and Notices to Air Missions should be checked close to the planned launch time. A prior authorization may not permit flight through a newly established restriction.

The authorization should be available to the pilot during the operation, and the aircraft should remain within the approved boundaries and altitude. Mission changes should not extend the flight beyond what was authorized.

If the crew cannot verify the airspace or authorization status, the aircraft should remain on the ground until the uncertainty is resolved.

Safety Reminders

• Check current airspace before every flight.
• Obtain authorization before entering controlled airspace when required.
• Read the complete authorization and all operating conditions.
• Stay within the approved location, altitude, date, and time.
• Check temporary restrictions and notices near launch time.
• Remember that authorization does not replace other safety rules.
• Do not launch when airspace status is uncertain.

Ask the Crew

• Is the planned route inside controlled airspace?
• Does this operation require LAANC or DroneZone authorization?
• What altitude, time, boundary, and conditions were approved?
• Have temporary restrictions and current notices been checked?
• Is the authorization available to the remote pilot?