What is Controlled airspace?
Controlled airspace is airspace where ATC provides separation services to participating aircraft. For drones, controlled airspace (Class B, C, D, and E surface areas) requires LAANC or waiver authorization before flight.
Controlled airspace classes are A, B, C, D, and E. Class G is uncontrolled.
For drones, the operative distinction is whether LAANC (or waiver) is required:
• Class B, C, D, and E surface areas → LAANC required • Class E above the surface (700 ft AGL+ shelves) → no LAANC needed (drones can't fly above 400 ft AGL anyway) • Class G → no LAANC needed
The 'surface area' qualifier matters for Class E. Most Class E begins at 700 ft AGL above general airspace — irrelevant to drones. But Class E surface areas exist around non-towered airports with instrument approaches, and those require LAANC.
What this means for pilots
Memorize the LAANC-required zones: B, C, D, E surface area. Most pilots who get cited didn't realize they were in Class E surface area near a non-towered field with instrument approaches. The dashed magenta line on a sectional chart marks Class E surface; the dashed blue line marks Class D.
FAQ
What's the difference between controlled and restricted airspace?
Controlled airspace (B/C/D/E) just means ATC provides services — drones need LAANC. Restricted airspace (R-areas, special use) is closed to most flight including drones, regardless of LAANC.
How can I tell if I'm in controlled airspace?
Sectional chart or airspace tool. Altoa surfaces this in the airspace check.
Does controlled airspace ever 'turn off'?
Class D becomes inactive when the tower closes — the airspace usually reverts to Class E surface area or G. Class B and C are always active.
Related terms
FAA regulations change. Verify current rules at faa.gov/uas before relying on this article for flight planning. Altoa is not the FAA.