Aviation Glossary

Altitude measured from the ground directly below the aircraft. Drone flight rules often specify maximum AGL heights (e.g., 400 feet AGL for recreational flights).

Flying a drone beyond where the pilot can see it with unaided vision (except corrective lenses). BVLOS operations require special authorization because of increased risk.

Controlled airspace around the busiest airports (like major hubs). Shaped like an upside-down wedding cake, it has the strictest requirements for drone operations.

Controlled airspace around airports with moderate traffic and a control tower. Extends from surface to 4,000 feet AGL within a 5-mile radius.

Controlled airspace around smaller airports with control towers. Typically extends from surface to 2,500 feet AGL within a 4-mile radius.

Uncontrolled airspace where ATC does not exercise authority. Most drone flights under 400 feet in rural areas occur in Class G airspace.

An FAA authorization that allows public agencies (like police, fire departments, and government entities) to fly drones for official purposes. COAs specify operational conditions and limitations.

Airspace where air traffic control services are provided. Classes A, B, C, D, and E are controlled. Drone flights in controlled airspace require authorization (often via LAANC).

Technology and procedures that allow a drone to detect other aircraft and take action to avoid collisions. Essential for BVLOS operations where the pilot cannot visually see other traffic.

FAA approval to deviate from aviation regulations not covered by the waiver process. Exemptions are typically for novel operations or aircraft types not anticipated by existing rules.

A designated area where drones can fly without Remote ID broadcast capability. These are typically fixed sites like flying clubs or educational institutions approved by the FAA.

An automated system that provides drone pilots with near real-time authorization to fly in controlled airspace near airports. It processes airspace requests in seconds instead of days.

Altitude measured from average sea level. Aviation altitudes are typically expressed in MSL for consistency across different terrain elevations.

The network of airspace, navigation facilities, airports, and air traffic control that makes up U.S. aviation infrastructure. Drones must integrate safely into the NAS.

Official notices alerting pilots to potential hazards or airspace restrictions. Drone pilots must check NOTAMs before flying to ensure their planned airspace is available.

The FAA regulation governing commercial drone operations. It requires pilots to hold a Remote Pilot Certificate and sets rules for safe commercial drone use.

A proposed FAA regulation for more complex drone operations. It would create "operating permits" for lower-risk operations and "operating certificates" for higher-risk, larger-scale operations.

A proposed FAA regulation establishing requirements for UAS Service Suppliers (USS) that provide traffic management services like deconfliction and conformance monitoring.

General operating rules for all aircraft. Public aircraft (government operations) often operate under Part 91 combined with a COA.

A digital "license plate" for drones that broadcasts identification and location information. Required for most drone operations since September 2023.

A UAS weighing less than 55 pounds (25 kg). Most commercial and recreational drones fall into this category and are regulated under Part 107.

A temporary airspace restriction that prohibits aircraft (including drones) from entering specific areas. Common around presidential visits, sporting events, and emergencies.

The complete system including the drone (unmanned aircraft), the ground control station, and the communication links between them. Often used interchangeably with "drone."

A system for managing drone traffic in low-altitude airspace. It enables safe, efficient drone operations by coordinating flights and sharing airspace information.

Operating a drone while maintaining direct visual contact with it. Standard Part 107 operations require VLOS unless a waiver is obtained.

FAA approval to deviate from specific Part 107 rules for commercial operations. Common waivers include flying at night, over people, or beyond visual line of sight.