What is LAANC?
LAANC, or the Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability, is a collaboration between the FAA and the UAS industry to provide the safe integration of drones into national airspace. With LAANC operators can:
- Check local airspace and explore where it's safe to fly.
- Request authorization from the FAA up to 30 days before flight.
- Access U.S. controlled airspace at or below 400 feet.
- View past, present and scheduled authorizations.
How do I get automatic authorizations?
Using LAANC, the application and approval process for airspace authorizations is automated. Operator requests are checked against UAS facility maps, airports and airspace classes, special use airspace, Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) and Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs).
If all criteria are met, operators will receive authorization to fly in near-real time. Unless it is specially requested in the authorization, operators do not need to notify the tower before they fly.
Note, LAANC provides authorizations only. Operators must still check for last minute TFRs, NOTAMs, and other restrictions before taking flight.
What kinds of airspace does LAANC provide access to?
LAANC provides visibility of:
- Facility Maps
- Airports
- Special Use Airspace
- National Security UAS Flight Restrictions
- Controlled Airspace
- Special DC Areas
- Stadiums
- National Parks
- TFRs and NOTAMs
How do I get access to LAANC?
See this article.