Flight Restricted Zone (FRZ): Operation and Function
Drones and Flight Restricted Zones: A Guide to Compliance
Operating a drone within a Flight Restricted Zone (FRZ) requires careful planning and adherence to local regulations. Here's a comprehensive guide to navigating the authorization process in various regions.
Authorization Process in Different Regions
United Kingdom
To fly a drone in a UK FRZ, you must apply for permission from air traffic control in advance. This typically involves submitting an application through the NATS portal (nsf.nats.aero). Ensure compliance with UK drone regulations, which typically require keeping drones below 120 meters (400 feet) unless specific exemptions apply.
South Korea
In South Korea, applying for drone flight waivers involves using the “Drone One-Stop” portal, managed by the Korea Transportation Safety Authority (KOTSA). The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MOLIT) and the Korea Office of Civil Aviation (KOCA) are key governing bodies for drone policies.
United States
For controlled airspace areas, such as Class E surface areas near airports, drone pilots must obtain FAA authorization using tools like LAANC (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability). Use tools like B4UFLY and FAA UAS Facility Maps to confirm airspace restrictions before flying.
General Steps
- Check Local Regulations: Understand the specific drone laws applicable to your location.
- Identify Restricted Areas: Use official tools or apps to determine if your planned flight area is within a restricted zone.
- Submit Application: If necessary, apply for permission through the relevant official portal or agency.
- Obtain Authorization: Ensure you receive explicit permission or authorization before flying in a restricted area.
- Document Compliance: Keep records of your authorization and compliance checks, especially for commercial operations.
Remember, compliance with local regulations and obtaining the necessary permissions are crucial to legally operate a drone in a Flight Restricted Zone. FRZs serve as a regulatory mechanism to protect manned aircraft, prevent security breaches, and reduce interference with emergency services.
Flight apps such as Aloft, DroneDeploy, or DJI FlySafe can be used to find out if you're near an FRZ and display restricted airspace in real-time. Software solutions now integrate FRZ boundaries directly into their user interfaces, allowing pilots to receive automatic alerts when planning routes.
Jacob Stoner, CEO of Flyeye.io, is a licensed commercial drone operator in Canada and frequently conducts drone inspections. Detection systems monitor drone activity in some areas, and counter-UAS tools can neutralize unauthorized flights in FRZs.
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