Developers can now integrate AirMap's low-altitude authorization and notification capability (LAANC) directly into their unmanned aerial systems (UAS) apps, providing Part 107 commercial drone operators with a seamless, automated way to request and receive authorizations for flights in controlled airspace.
The capability, which uses app-to-app deep-linking to transfer flight plans to AirMap's app for submission, is available on AirMap's developer platform. App providers 3DR, Betterview, Converge, and DroneDeploy have integrated it into their products, while DroneBase and Measure areis set to join the list next month, AirMap said.
LAANC, part of the FAA's UAS Data Exchange initiative, is an industry-driven effort to bring near-real-time authorization-processing and notifications to UAS operators. Airspace data is provided through the UAS facility maps, which depict where the FAA can authorize UAS operations around airports. LAANC allows operators to reference the maps, develop flight plans, and deliver automatic notification and authorization requests to the FAA, replacing a manual process that can take months.
“LAANC is a key factor in seamlessly deploying drones in the commercial world,” said Paul Quimby, chief technology officer of Converge, which makes the Control Tower UAS workflow app. “Previously, we had users waiting up to 90 days to fly in restricted airspaces. Now, with a simple tap, our users can instantly request authorization to fly in airspaces from the FAA."
The FAA has approved three LAANC service providers: AirMap, Project Wing, and Skyward. LAANC is available at six FAA facilities that cover 46 airports—part of a beta test set to run through spring. A national test is planned for later this year.