What is LAANC?

Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC) is a system used by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the United States to provide automated approval of requests to fly unmanned aerial systems (UAS), also known as drones, in controlled airspace. LAANC allows drone pilots to obtain near-real-time airspace authorizations for flights in controlled airspace below 400 feet in altitude, which is the altitude limit for most small drones operating under the FAA's Part 107 regulations.

The LAANC system is designed to provide efficient and safe access to controlled airspace for drones, while still ensuring the safety of manned aircraft. Drone pilots can use the LAANC system through approved third-party UAS Service Suppliers (USS), which provide access to airspace authorizations in near-real-time.

To use LAANC, drone pilots must have a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate, and their drone must be registered with the FAA. Pilots can then submit a request for airspace authorization through an approved USS, which will review the request and provide an authorization if the flight can be conducted safely.