The FAA’s B4UFLY app once served as the go-to tool for drone pilots seeking instant airspace awareness. It helped users quickly determine where they could safely fly, displaying details on airports, special-use airspace, and temporary flight restrictions (TFRs). The app became a trusted guide for both recreational and commercial drone operators.
The FAA Retires the Standalone App
In February 2024, the FAA officially retired the standalone B4UFLY app, transitioning to a network of FAA-approved third-party providers. These platforms now deliver the same situational awareness and near-real-time airspace authorization (LAANC) features. This update allows pilots to access richer FAA data, faster processing, and advanced flight planning tools that weren’t available in the original version, modernizing the way drone pilots manage flight safety and compliance.
FAA-Approved Third-Party Providers
Currently, five companies are authorized to provide “B4UFly” apps: Airspace, Aloft, Autopylot, Avision, and UASidekick. These apps integrate FAA airspace data and allow users to:
- Request near real-time LAANc authorizations.
- Access controlled and uncontrolled airspace information.
- Review special-use zones, TFRs, and airport proximity warnings.
- Utilize safety overlays, environmental layers, and local advisories.
Additional features vary by app, such as flight logging, mission planning, weather overlays, checklists, and compliance tracking.
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