AutoPylot currently supports near real-time airspace approvals through the FAA's LAANC system. However, Further Coordination is a separate and more complex type of LAANC authorization that AutoPylot does not currently support.
Below is everything you need to know about Further Coordination, including who offers it, how it works, and how to apply if required.
What is Further Coordination?
Further Coordination is a process used when to request to fly a drone in controlled airspace above the standard LAANC altitude limits. These limits are pre-set by the FAA and vary depending on proximity to an airport. If your operation exceeds those limits, Air Traffic Control (ATC) must manually review your request through the Further Coordination process.
This review ensures your flight will not pose a risk to crewed aircraft operations or other airspace users.
What is it Used For?
Further Coordination is used when:
You must fly above the FAA's published LAANC altitude ceilings (for example, want to fly 300 feet in a 200-foot grid).
When trying to fly in a zero grid where LAANC is active.
Who Can Use It?
Part 107-certified remote pilots can request Further Coordination authorizations.
Recreational flyers cannot use Further Coordination and are limited to standard LAANC altitudes.
Only certain LAANC providers support this type of request, but AutoPylot does not at this time.
You can view the list of current providers that support Further Coordination requests on the FAA LAANC Website.
How Does it Work?
When you submit a Further Coordination request:
It is routed to FAA air traffic personnel for manual review.
FAA may approve, deny, or modify the request based on traffic patterns, operational risk, and airport activity.
You'll receive an email update (usually within a few days) with the decision.
How Long Does It Take?
Unlike instant LAANC approvals, Further Coordination can take up to 30 days or more to process; however, most requests are processed within 72 hours.
Further Coordination requests must be submitted a minimum of 72 hours in advance.
If a response isn't provided, further coordination requests will expire 24 hours before the proposed start time.
Where Can I Submit a Further Coordination Request?
Although AutoPylot does not currently support this feature, you can use one of the approved LAANC providers that offer Further Coordination. You can find the most up-to-date list on the FAA's website.
For more on LAANC, visit the FAA's official LAANC overview.
If you have questions about what AutoPylot can help you with, feel free to reach out to our support team.