A remote pilot needs authorization to operate in controlled airspace for a real estate shoot in two weeks. Which FAA system is the appropriate pathway, and what is its typical timeline?

Question

Accepted Answer

LAANC through an approved service provider; near-real-time approvals up to the grid's maximum altitude. LAANC (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability) is the standard pathway for routine controlled-airspace authorization. Approvals come through apps like Aloft, Airspace Link, or B4UFLY within seconds for operations at or below the published grid altitude. DroneZone manual authorization is used when requesting altitudes above the LAANC grid and takes longer. A § 107.200 waiver is for non-airspace rule deviations (night BVLOS, over-people without Category, etc.) and is not the right tool for routine airspace authorization.

Answer

FAA DroneZone manual authorization; approvals typically take up to 90 days

Answer

A § 107.200 waiver; approvals typically take 60 to 90 days