Operating near Airports

For many jobs, the right path is LAANC or another standard airspace authorization route, not a waiver. The FAA’s authorization guidance is here: Part 107 Airspace Authorizations.

What to check early

• Whether the site is in controlled airspace
• Whether LAANC is available for the area
• What altitude grid applies to the site
• If it's military or restricted
• Whether the client schedule leaves enough time to get the right authorization

Regional airports are often far easier to work around than major hubs. The closer you get to a major airport, the more the authorization path and altitude limits can constrain what is practical. That does not mean the job is impossible. It just means that it's a bit less likely to be approved and you may have to wait longer and tighten you scope more.

What not to do

• Don't assume that your authorization will be approved quickly. Especially on non-LAANC enabled sites, some authorization requests take 1-2 weeks or more to clear the controlling agencies desks. Your mileage may vary.
• Don't assume that you can fly up to the posted limits without an authorization. A common misconception is that you don't need authorization if you stay under the FAA posted limits. This is not true. The posted limits simply define the limit to which a normal authorization will be approved. Requesting above those limits require special consideration and planning and may not be approved as frequently.

Best practices

• Check your airspace early
• Plan non-LAANC flights conservatively, allowing enough time for the authorization to be approved
• Always orient towards aircraft sounds and be particularly vigilant about helicopters, remember, manned aircraft always have the right of way. Be prepared to pause your mission and descend at a moments notice.