LAANC System Guide - Dronefaaregulations

What is the LAANC System?

The Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC) represents one of the most significant advancements in drone operations since the Part 107 regulations took effect. This automated system allows drone pilots to receive near-instantaneous authorization to fly in controlled airspace, replacing what was once a lengthy manual approval process that could take weeks or months.

LAANC is a collaboration between the FAA and the drone industry that provides real-time processing of airspace authorizations below approved altitudes in controlled airspace around airports. The system directly supports Part 107 operations by streamlining the process of obtaining the airspace authorization required under 14 CFR 107.41.

How LAANC Works with Controlled Airspace

Controlled airspace exists around airports to protect aircraft during critical phases of flight like takeoff and landing. This airspace is divided into classes (B, C, D, and E), with Class B surrounding the busiest airports and extending outward in increasingly permissive layers.

LAANC operates using a grid system that divides controlled airspace into discrete areas, each with a maximum altitude ceiling for drone operations. These ceilings typically range from 0 feet (no operations allowed) to 400 feet, depending on proximity to the airport and approach paths.

The LAANC Grid System

The FAA has created detailed facility maps for LAANC-enabled airports that show:

Maximum altitude ceilings – The highest altitude approved for automatic authorization in each grid square
Geographic boundaries – Precise latitude/longitude coordinates defining each authorization zone
Surface area restrictions – Areas where no operations are permitted without manual authorization
Time-based limitations – Some areas may have different ceilings during different times of day

When you submit a LAANC request, the system checks your proposed operation location and altitude against these facility maps. If your operation falls within approved parameters, authorization is granted automatically, often within seconds.

Approved LAANC Service Providers

The FAA does not operate LAANC directly. Instead, they have partnered with FAA-approved UAS Service Suppliers (USS) who provide LAANC capability through mobile apps and web platforms. As of 2025, the primary approved providers include:

Major LAANC Providers

Aloft – One of the most widely used platforms, offering both free and premium tiers with advanced flight planning features
Airmap – Popular for its intuitive interface and integration with DJI drones and other platforms
Kittyhawk (now part of Aloft) – Originally independent, now merged with Aloft but still maintaining separate branding
UASidekick – Focuses on enterprise users and fleet operations
AirHub – Offers robust flight planning alongside LAANC authorization
Skyward (Verizon) – Enterprise-focused platform with comprehensive fleet management

All FAA-approved providers offer the same core LAANC authorization capability, but differ in additional features like flight logging, airspace awareness tools, weather integration, and enterprise management capabilities. Most offer free basic access with premium tiers for professional operators.

Step-by-Step: How to Get LAANC Authorization

Obtaining LAANC authorization is straightforward once you understand the process. Here’s a detailed walkthrough:

Before Your First LAANC Request

Obtain your Part 107 certificate – You must be a certified remote pilot to use LAANC
Create an account with a LAANC provider – Download their app or access their web platform
Verify your pilot credentials – Most providers require you to upload your Part 107 certificate and validate your identity
Familiarize yourself with the interface – Practice checking airspace before you need to fly

Submitting a LAANC Request

Open your LAANC app and navigate to the authorization request section
Enter your flight location – Use GPS, address search, or tap on a map to specify where you’ll be operating
Specify your maximum altitude – Enter the highest altitude you plan to fly (in feet AGL)
Set your flight window – Select start and end times for your operation (maximum 4 hours per authorization)
Review airspace information – The app will display the maximum ceiling available at your location
Submit your request – If you’re within approved parameters, you’ll receive near-instant approval
Save your authorization – Keep a digital or printed copy accessible during your flight

Using Your LAANC Authorization

Once approved, your authorization is valid for the specific time window, location, and altitude you requested. You must:

Keep the authorization accessible during flight (digital on phone or printed copy)
Operate only within the approved geographic area and altitude ceiling
Fly only during your approved time window
Comply with all other Part 107 regulations

You can cancel an authorization if your plans change, which is good airspace stewardship. If you need to extend your operation beyond your initial 4-hour window, you can submit another request.

LAANC Limitations and Manual DroneZone Waivers

While LAANC is incredibly convenient, it has important limitations that pilots must understand:

When LAANC Cannot Be Used

You’ll need to pursue a manual authorization through the FAA’s DroneZone if you need to:

Exceed LAANC altitude ceilings – If you need to fly higher than the maximum ceiling shown in the facility map
Operate in surface area (0 ft) zones – Areas with 0-foot ceilings require manual authorization
Fly in non-LAANC airspace – Some controlled airspace hasn’t been enabled for LAANC yet
Request extended operations – Authorizations longer than the standard timeframe
Conduct operations requiring waivers – Night operations, operations over people, BVLOS, etc.

DroneZone Manual Authorization Process

When LAANC won’t work, you’ll use the FAA DroneZone portal to submit an airspace authorization request:

Access DroneZone at faadronezone.faa.gov
Create an account or log in with your existing credentials
Navigate to “Part 107 Authorizations and Waivers”
Complete the detailed application including specific location, altitude, and operational details
Provide a safety case explaining why your operation can be conducted safely
Submit and wait for FAA review (typically 90-120 days)

Manual authorizations require significantly more lead time and documentation than LAANC. Professional operators who regularly need airspace access beyond LAANC ceilings often apply for blanket authorizations covering multiple operations over extended periods.

Best Practices for LAANC Operations

To make the most of the LAANC system:

Check airspace early – Review LAANC availability when planning operations, not minutes before flying
Request only what you need – Don’t request 400 feet if you only plan to fly at 100 feet
Set realistic time windows – Include buffer time for setup and weather delays
Keep authorizations accessible – Have them ready to show law enforcement or other officials
Cancel unused authorizations – If plans change, cancel to free up airspace awareness
Maintain situational awareness – LAANC authorization doesn’t eliminate your responsibility to see and avoid manned aircraft

The Future of LAANC

The FAA continues to expand LAANC coverage and capabilities. Recent and upcoming enhancements include:

Integration with Remote ID systems for enhanced airspace awareness
Expanded coverage to additional airports and controlled airspace
Dynamic airspace adjustments based on real-time conditions
Improved coordination with manned aviation traffic management systems
Enhanced capabilities for emergency and public safety operations

LAANC has fundamentally changed commercial drone operations, making it possible to legally and safely operate near airports in ways that would have been impractical just a few years ago. Understanding how to effectively use this system is essential knowledge for any serious Part 107 pilot.