Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)
UAS is the principal element within the Air Traffic Airspace Management Program responsible for authorizing unmanned aircraft operations in the National Airspace System (NAS). This group works in close coordination with Aviation Safety's Unmanned Aircraft Program Office to review proposed applications and ensure that approvals to fly unmanned aircraft, regardless of size, will result in not compromising the high level of safety for other aviation and the public and property on the ground.
Flight of Unmanned Aircraft Systems is not permitted over populated areas and no hazardous material may be carried or objects dropped, outside of Restricted Area Airspace.
Certificate of Authorization or Waiver (COA)
Public operators may apply for a Certificate of Authorization to operate an
unmanned aircraft.
** Announcement **
As of July 1, 2007, COA applications (SSI level or below) must be submitted via the UAS COA Online System. Applications not submitted via this system may take 6-12 months to process. For classified applications (Secret or above), please contact the ATO office directly.
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