The Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) nationwide deployment of the Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC) system has processed more than 50,000 applications from drone operators for authorization to fly in controlled airspace since November 2017. The LAANC system now covers about 300 air traffic facilities that service approximately 500 airports, and provides nearly instant approval for drone operators to operate in these controlled airspaces. LAANC uses airspace data provided through temporary flight restrictions, Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) and drone (or unmanned aircraft system –UAS) facility maps that show the maximum altitude ceiling around airports to help conduct and support safe drone operation in accordance with the FAA’s Part 107 regulations.

To date, the FAA has approved 14 LAANC service suppliers. To learn more about LAANC and its role in aiding in the FAA in approving certain drone operations visit the FAA’s DroneZone.