Overview
The Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC) is an FAA system that provides automated airspace authorization for drones operating below 400ft in controlled airspace. DroneDeploy integrates with Airbus UTM (Unmanned Traffic Management) to facilitate these approvals directly within your workflow.
Availability
LAANC is available to all paid DroneDeploy Aerial subscriptions.
This feature is currently available for flight operations within the US.
How to use LAANC
Follow these steps to plan your mission and obtain authorization.
Plan your drone mission. Select your project area in DroneDeploy. Set your flight parameters, including altitude (typically 150-400ft), speed, and camera settings.
Request LAANC approval. Click Request LAANC Approval within the flight planning menu.
Verify airspace. DroneDeploy automatically checks your mission area against the FAA database. If the area requires authorization, the app sends the request to Airbus UTM.
Fly your mission. Once you receive the automated approval via text or in-app notification, start your flight. DroneDeploy updates the flight plan with the approved altitude and time window.
Key features
Automated FAA checks: The system identifies restricted airspace instantly.
Real-time authorization: Receive approvals in seconds for most controlled grids.
Seamless integration: Flight plans sync directly with Airbus UTM and the FAA
Resolving authorization issues
If your authorization is not successful, follow these troubleshooting steps:
Review the status message: Airbus UTM provides specific details regarding the status of your request.
Verify flight parameters: Check that your altitude does not exceed the FAA UAS Facility Map limit for that specific grid.
Confirm airspace status: Ensure the area is not currently under a Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR).
Contact Support: If you require further assistance, reach out to the DroneDeploy Support team.
Limitations
Maximum altitude: Authorizations are limited to the maximum altitude specified by the FAA for each grid.
Restricted zones: This tool does not provide access to prohibited or restricted areas without a manual FAA waiver.
Manual appeals: Appeals for unsuccessful automated requests must be handled directly through Airbus UTM or the FAA.
FAQs
Q: Does SnapShot work in 3D during a LAANC mission?
A: Yes — SnapShot fully supports 3D models and views while flying authorized missions.
Q: How long does an authorization last?
A: Approvals are valid for the specific time window provided during the request process.
v2.2