Purpose
To provide a structured workflow and reference guide for drone pilots needing authorization to operate near Department of Defense (DOD) installations, where additional permissions are often required due to counter-drone technologies and security protocols.
Background
Due to increasing adoption of counter-drone technology by DOD entities, areas surrounding federal properties, particularly military installations, are often classified as restricted airspace or “zero altitude” zones (0 AGL). This requires pilots to go through a waiver and coordination process to obtain authorization before flying in or near these areas.
General Workflow for Requesting Authorization
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Initial Airspace Check
- Before any flight planning, use an airspace link integration tool or other approved application to check the airspace status of the desired flight area.
- Confirm if the area falls within a “zero altitude” zone, indicated on the map. If the location is within this restricted airspace, additional steps are necessary, and customer operations may not be possible without proper clearance.
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Apply for FAA Waiver
- Visit the FAA's drone site to apply for a waiver specific to the location in question.
- Provide detailed information in the waiver application, including:
- Date and time of the proposed flight
- Details of the intended operation and the drone being used
- Submit the waiver request to the FAA. Note that processing may take significant time, and planning should begin several months in advance.
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FAA & Military Coordination
- Upon receipt of the waiver, the FAA's local representative responsible for UAS operations in the airspace will coordinate with the military installation’s base security office.
- This coordination step is essential for safety and compliance with DOD policies and includes vetting and verification by military security personnel.
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Security and Background Check
- The base security office will gather additional details, including information about the pilot, the drone model, and the nature of the operation.
- A background check may be conducted on the pilot as part of this vetting process.
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Approval Process
- Following the security review, the installation security office will issue a decision on the waiver.
- Note: For federal properties, particularly DOD installations, flights using DJI or certain other equipment may not be approved due to federal equipment restrictions.
Important Considerations
- Time Requirement: The entire process from application to approval is lengthy, so plan well in advance.
- Equipment Restrictions: Be aware of restrictions on specific equipment, as federal properties often prohibit certain brands or models.
- Compliance and Safety: Ensure all operational details are in compliance with both FAA and DOD requirements.
Additional Notes
There may be unique, site-specific procedures and additional nuances to this process depending on the installation’s security protocols. Always confirm with local authorities and follow any specific guidance for the location in question.