Airspace Restrictions and Requirements
Airspace Restrictions and Requirements
All unmanned aircraft are required to receive prior authorization before flying in controlled airspace (Class A, B, C, D, and sometimes Class E airspace). No notice or authorization is required to fly in uncontrolled airspace (Class G airspace).
Airspace and the associated limitations and restrictions for each type are discussed later in the course, under the Airspace section.
Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs)
The Remote Pilot in Command is required to check NOTAMs and TFRs prior to flight operations.
NOTAMs are messages to pilots that give special information and warnings about potential hazards and other items to be aware of. You can search for relevant NOTAMs in your proposed area of operation by going to the PilotWeb site or the NOTAM Search site. Both are run by the FAA.
Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs)
A TFR is a geographically-limited, short-term, airspace restriction, typically in the United States. Temporary flight restrictions often encompass major sporting events, natural disaster areas, air shows, space launches, and Presidential movements.
Flight Data Center NOTAMs are NOTAMs that are regulatory in nature such as changes to an instrument approach procedure or airway. Temporary Flight Restrictions ( TFRs ) are also issued as FDC NOTAMs .
A Remote Pilot in Command can check for TFRs on the FAA TFR website by searching for any active TFRs in their proposed flight area. There are also several apps that include airspace information that generally includes TFR data. A few apps currently available are (this is not an endorsement of any particular app - just meant to be a helpful reference):