What Is LAANC and Why It Matters for Drone Pilots
Flying in controlled airspace can be tricky for drone pilots, but the FAA’s Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability, better known as LAANC, makes the process quick and stress-free. Unlike a waive, which allows drone operations outside Part 107 rules (like flying over people or at night), LAANC focuses on giving Part 107 pilots real-time approval to fly at or below 400 feet in controlled airspace near airports.
With LAANC, you can:
- Get instant approval to fly in certain controlled airspace.
- Check your flight route against the UAS Facility Map.
- See temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) and special use airspace schedules.
If you’re a drone pilot planning to fly near airports below 400 feet, LAANC is the fastest way to get the authorization you need.
LAANC vs. FAA Waivers: What’s the Difference?
A waiver is a more complex FAA approval allowing operations outside standard Part 107 regulations. For example, flying over people or at night requires a waiver, which can take up to 90 days to process.
An airspace authorization through LAANC, on the other hand, is:
- Faster – often approved instantly.
- Simpler – designed specifically for flights at or below 400 feet in controlled airspace.
- Widely available – over 700 airports participate, and the list is available on the FAA’s website.
How to Get Airspace Authorization Using LAANC
Getting started with LAANC is easy:
- Choose a LAANC-compatible app – examples include Aloft and AutoPylot.
- Create an account and enter your planned flight route.
- Request authorization – the app sends your request to the FAA’s UAS Data Exchange.
- Wait for instant approval – your request is checked against TFRs, NOTAMs, and facility maps.
With approval in hand, you can fly safely, legally, and confidently in controlled airspace.
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