FAA Clarifies Drone Authorization Rules for Airport Emergency Exercises

New guidance explains how airport operators should request airspace access when using drones in emergency response training.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued updated guidance on October 9, 2026, clarifying authorization requirements for drone operations during airport emergency exercises.

According to the FAA‘s On Airport Unmanned Aircraft System Operations guidance, airport sponsors planning to use small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) in controlled airspace during emergency exercises must request FAA airspace access in advance.

The guidance includes exercises conducted under 14 CFR 139.325(h), which addresses airport emergency plan exercises.

Different Authorization Procedures

The FAA specifies two application procedures, depending on the regulations governing the drone operation:

• Part 107 operations: Airport sponsors must request airspace authorization through FAADroneZone when operating in controlled airspace.

• Part 91 operations: Airport sponsors must request a Certificate of Authorization (COA) through CAPS, regardless of airspace classification.

The agency also emphasizes that airport sponsors must submit requests early enough to allow sufficient processing time before scheduled operations.

Implications for Airport Drone Programs

Drones can support airport emergency response training by providing aerial views of simulated incidents and helping response teams assess conditions.

The October 9 update clarifies the authorization process for these exercises. It does not establish new operating rules or change existing Part 107 regulations.

The FAA continues to study other airport drone applications, including aircraft rescue and firefighting support, accident documentation, and airport inspections.

Airport operators planning drone-supported emergency exercises can review the FAA’s official guidance and application information.