Airspace Restrictions and Requirements

Airspace Restrictions and Requirements

Before every Part 107 flight, the Remote Pilot in Command must determine the airspace classification, identify any restriction affecting the planned operating area, and obtain any authorization required before launch. This lesson introduces the high-level rules. The Airspace module covers chart reading and airspace classes in detail.


Controlled and Uncontrolled Airspace

The FAA classifies U.S. airspace as Class A, B, C, D, E, or G. Class A, B, C, D, and E are controlled airspace. Class G is uncontrolled airspace.

For Part 107, the key issue is not simply whether airspace is controlled. The key question is whether the operation is in airspace specifically listed in 14 CFR 107.41.

Class B, C, and D Airspace

Obtain prior Air Traffic Control authorization before operating in Class B, C, or D airspace.

Class E Surface Area Designated for an Airport

Obtain prior Air Traffic Control authorization when the operation is within the lateral boundaries of the surface area.

Class G Airspace

Class G is uncontrolled, so no prior ATC authorization is required. However, Class G is not a “no rules” zone. All other Part 107 rules, current NOTAMs, TFRs, and local restrictions still apply.

Class A Airspace

Do not plan routine Part 107 operations in Class A airspace. Class A begins at 18,000 feet MSL and is not relevant to ordinary small-UAS operations under the Part 107 altitude limit.

Exam shortcut: Class B, C, D, and the surface area of Class E designated for an airport require prior ATC authorization. Class G does not, but it is not a “no rules” zone.


Operating Near Airports

There is no universal Part 107 rule requiring a drone pilot to remain a fixed number of miles away from every airport. The regulatory standard is whether the small UAS operation interferes with operations and traffic patterns at an airport, heliport, or seaplane base.

This rule applies even near a small uncontrolled airport in Class G airspace. Before flying, consider aircraft arrival and departure routes, helicopter activity, seaplane operations, and any other traffic pattern that could be affected by the flight.


Prohibited and Restricted Areas

A prohibited or restricted area is different from ordinary controlled airspace. Do not operate in one of these areas unless you obtain permission from the using or controlling agency, as appropriate.

Prohibited area: Obtain permission from the designated government agency that uses or controls the area.

Restricted area: Obtain permission from the using or controlling agency, often the military or another government agency.

Controlled airspace under 14 CFR 107.41: Obtain prior ATC authorization.

The distinction matters: The correct authority may be a military or other government agency rather than ATC.


NOTAMs and Temporary Flight Restrictions

A NOTAM is a Notice to Air Missions. NOTAMs provide time-sensitive information that may affect flight operations, including hazards, changes, and airspace restrictions.

A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is a temporary, geographically defined restriction issued through a NOTAM.

TFRs may be issued for wildfire and other disaster areas, Presidential or VIP movements, sporting events, air shows, space operations, security events, and other circumstances where aviation safety or security requires temporary limits.

Always check current NOTAMs and TFRs before flight. They can change quickly, even when the flight is in Class G airspace.


Flight-Planning Resources

Use current official FAA sources as the primary check for NOTAMs and TFRs. The applications below can help with situational awareness, airspace planning, and, where available, LAANC requests. They are convenience tools, not a substitute for the Remote PIC’s obligation to confirm that the planned operation is legal and safe.

Important: This resource list is provided for convenience and is not an endorsement of a particular application. Check the official FAA NOTAM and TFR sources before flight, and verify any authorization or restriction that affects your operation.


Preflight Airspace Checklist

  • The planned location and altitude have been checked against the applicable airspace classification.
  • Any required ATC authorization has been obtained.
  • The operation will not interfere with airport, heliport, or seaplane-base traffic patterns.
  • The planned area is not prohibited or restricted, or permission from the controlling agency has been obtained.
  • Current NOTAMs and TFRs have been reviewed using official FAA sources.


Lesson Recap

  1. Get prior ATC authorization before operating in Class B, C, D, or the surface area of Class E designated for an airport.
  2. Class G does not require prior ATC authorization, but all other Part 107 rules and current restrictions still apply.
  3. Never interfere with airport traffic patterns.
  4. Obtain the using or controlling agency’s permission before operating in a prohibited or restricted area.
  5. Review current NOTAMs and TFRs before every flight.

FAA Resources


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