FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot (UAG)OperationsHard
A remote pilot needs to operate in a portion of Class C airspace where LAANC automated authorization is not available for the desired altitude and location. What must the pilot do to legally obtain airspace authorization?
- AUse the LAANC portal exclusively, since manual authorization requests are no longer accepted by the FAA
- BNo authorization is needed as long as the flight remains below 400 feet AGL
- CSimply contact the ATC facility by radio immediately before takeoff for verbal clearance
- DSubmit a manual airspace authorization request through the FAA DroneZone system, which may take up to 90 days to process
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Submit a manual airspace authorization request through the FAA DroneZone system, which may take up to 90 days to process
When LAANC coverage is unavailable for the requested location or altitude, remote pilots must submit a manual airspace authorization request through the FAA DroneZone website, which can take up to 90 days for review and approval, so the request should be filed well in advance.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Manual DroneZone requests remain available and necessary when LAANC does not cover the operation.
- B. Controlled airspace authorization is required regardless of altitude below 400 feet.
- C. sUAS remote pilots typically do not have direct radio communication capability with ATC as manned pilots do.
Manual Airspace Authorization
When LAANC automated authorization isn't available for a location/altitude, pilots must file a manual request via FAADroneZone, which can take up to 90 days to process.
- Manual requests are submitted through FAADroneZone
- Processing may take up to 90 days
- LAANC is the faster, automated alternative when available
Memory trick: 'No LAANC? Plan for 90 days with DroneZone.'