A remote pilot plans to operate a sUAS within the lateral boundaries of Class D airspace surrounding a small towered airport. The pilot has obtained a LAANC authorization for the planned altitude and location. While airborne, the pilot notices unusual radio chatter suggesting increased traffic near the airport. What is the most appropriate operational practice for the remote pilot at this time?
- AClimb to a higher altitude to get above the manned traffic pattern
- BMaintain increased situational awareness, continue to see and avoid other aircraft, and be prepared to land if conflicting traffic approaches
- CIgnore the radio chatter since LAANC authorization guarantees separation from all manned traffic
- DLand immediately regardless of current safety, since any radio chatter indicates an emergency
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Maintain increased situational awareness, continue to see and avoid other aircraft, and be prepared to land if conflicting traffic approaches
A LAANC authorization only grants permission to operate in controlled airspace up to a certain altitude; it does not provide separation services or guarantee traffic-free skies. The remote pilot retains full responsibility for see-and-avoid, must maintain heightened awareness when traffic activity increases, and must be ready to land or maneuver to avoid a conflict.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Climbing above traffic could violate altitude authorization and worsens conflict potential rather than resolving it.
- C. LAANC authorization does not provide separation services; the remote PIC remains responsible for avoiding traffic.
- D. Immediate landing regardless of safety could itself create a hazard; a measured response is appropriate.
LAANC Authorization Limits
LAANC provides near real-time airspace authorization for controlled airspace operations but does not separate the sUAS from other traffic; the remote PIC remains fully responsible for collision avoidance.
- LAANC grants access, not traffic separation
- Remote PIC must continuously see and avoid manned aircraft
- Authorization can be for a fixed altitude ceiling by grid
- Pilot must yield right of way to manned aircraft
Memory trick: LAANC opens the door, it doesn't watch your back