Controlled Airspace Authorization

Verified from official sources
101.11(a)Version 1Effective -Verified 25 August 2026

In plain language

You cannot fly a drone in controlled airspace unless you get permission from Air Traffic Control (ATC) first, or unless you are conducting a shielded operation (flying close to a structure or object).

Requirement as structured

A person must not operate an unmanned aircraft, kite, rocket, gyroglider, or parasail in controlled airspace without prior authorization from the responsible Air Traffic Control (ATC) unit, unless the operation is a shielded operation.

Original regulatory text

A person must not operate any of the following in controlled airspace without prior authorisation from the ATC unit responsible for that airspace unless the operation is a shielded operation: (1) an unmanned aircraft; (2) a kite; (3) a rocket; (4) a gyroglider; (5) a parasail.