Flying drones safely and legally starts with knowing the airspace. In this video, we show step-by-step how remote pilots check airspace before every flight under Part 107. Learn how to use apps like B4UFLY, AirMap, and Kittyhawk, interpret sectional charts, and avoid FAA violations or fines. If you want to stay compliant, fly with confidence, and avoid common mistakes, this practical guide is a must-watch for all Part 107 remote pilots.
Why You Must Check Airspace Before Every Flight
Airspace conditions change constantly. A location that was clear yesterday may have an active TFR today. Flying without checking first exposes you to FAA violations, fines, and certificate action. The good news is that the tools available to check airspace before every flight are free, fast, and right on your phone.
FAA-Approved Apps Make Airspace Checks Fast and Simple
The FAA has approved several mobile apps specifically designed to help remote pilots check airspace quickly and accurately. The original Before You Fly app is no longer supported, but a new generation of FAA-approved apps has taken its place. The key is finding one you are comfortable with and using it consistently before every single flight. Remote Pilot 101 has a dedicated lesson walking through the latest approved options in full detail.
Always Watch for Temporary Flight Restrictions
Regardless of which tool you use, temporary flight restrictions require special attention. TFRs are areas temporarily off limits to flight, often triggered by VIP movements, emergency operations, or active firefighting efforts. They can appear with little notice and are legally enforceable. Making TFR checks a standard part of how you check airspace before every flight protects you from violations you never saw coming.
How to Check Airspace: A Simple Two-Minute Workflow
Checking airspace before every flight does not need to be complicated or time consuming. Follow this straightforward process every time you fly. Start by opening your FAA-approved app or sectional chart before you leave your vehicle. Locate your planned flight area on the map and determine whether you will be operating in controlled airspace. If you are, confirm that your LAANC authorization is already in place before you even preflight your drone. Next, scan for any active TFRs in the area. Finally, verify your planned altitude and confirm you will be staying at or below 400 feet AGL unless you have specific authorization to go higher.
Controlled vs. Uncontrolled Airspace: Know Before You Go
Before you launch, you need to know whether your flight area falls inside controlled or uncontrolled airspace. Controlled airspace requires prior FAA authorization through LAANC or DroneZone before flight. Uncontrolled airspace gives you more flexibility but still requires you to follow all Part 107 rules. Your app or sectional chart will tell you exactly what you are working with at your planned location.
LAANC Authorization: Get It Before You Preflight
If your flight area falls within controlled airspace, LAANC authorization must be secured before you ever touch your drone. LAANC — the Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability — provides near real-time airspace authorization for drone pilots through FAA-approved apps. Do not arrive at your flight location and then try to get authorization. Get it done ahead of time and arrive ready to fly.
Altitude Awareness: Stay at or Below 400 Feet AGL
Part 107 requires remote pilots to operate at or below 400 feet above ground level unless specific authorization has been granted to go higher. Before every flight, confirm your planned altitude fits within that limit. This is a quick check but a critical one. Altitude violations are among the most common and avoidable mistakes Part 107 pilots make in the field.
Make the Airspace Check a Pre-Flight Non-Negotiable
The most effective way to stay compliant as a remote pilot is to build the airspace check into your routine before every single flight — no exceptions. Open your app, check the map, confirm your authorization, scan for TFRs, and verify your altitude. That entire process takes less than two minutes and protects your certificate, your reputation, and the safety of the airspace around you.
Airspace Check Workflow Quick Reference
| Step | Action | Tool |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Open app or sectional chart | FAA-Approved App |
| 2 | Locate planned flight area | App Map View |
| 3 | Confirm controlled vs. uncontrolled airspace | Sectional Chart or App |
| 4 | Verify LAANC authorization if in controlled airspace | LAANC / DroneZone |
| 5 | Scan for active TFRs | FAA-Approved App |
| 6 | Confirm altitude at or below 400 feet AGL | App or Manual Check |
Ready to Take Your Drone Training to the Next Level?
MzeroA’s Remote Pilot 101 course gives you everything you need to earn your Part 107 certificate and fly with confidence in the real world. We have successfully helped thousands of drone pilots pass their FAA knowledge exam and launch their drone careers. Our students train with practical, real-world lessons built specifically for remote pilots operating under Part 107. Whether you are just getting started or brushing up on the rules, Remote Pilot 101 has you covered. Visit www.mzeroa.com/store to learn more and start flying smarter today!