ATC Personnel Have Been Instructed Not To Give Permission For Flights

With the implementation of FAR Part 107, UAV pilots can no longer get permission to fly from local air traffic control personnel.

A Tweet from Peter Sachs, Esq., points out the relevant section in JO 7200.23. It states that "In the event a Part 107 operator contacts an ATC facility directly for authorization, the facility must not issue the authorization. The facility must direct the operator to the FAA UAS website.

The FAA says on that website that "UAS operators who want to fly outside the requirements of the Small UAS Rule (Part 107) may request a waiver and/or airspace authorization using the form below.

"Applicants are encouraged to review the form instructions (PDF) and the list of regulations subject to waiver prior to submitting this form. Please provide all required information in order to facilitate evaluation of your request."

The waiver form asks for information about the "responsible party" and the actual operator, as well as the location of and reason for the flight.

The form is not for use by modelers or hobbyists flying in accordance with the Special Rule for Model Aircraft, according to the FAA.

(Image from file)

FMI: www.faa.gov/uas/request_waiver