Letter of Authorization: Its Purpose and Function
Article Title: Obtaining a Letter of Authorization (LOA) for Drone Operations
A Letter of Authorization (LOA) is not a waiver or exemption, but a permission letter issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to certified drone operators who meet operational requirements. This article explains the process of obtaining an LOA for drone operations, focusing on both standard and Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations.
To secure an LOA, operators must submit a formal request to their local Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) or Certificate Holding District Office (CHDO). For instance, if seeking an LOA related to equipment or operational permissions, such as a Minimum Equipment List (MEL), a written request should be drafted and submitted for FAA review and approval. The FAA will evaluate the request and either sign off or request additional information before granting the LOA.
For broader drone operation authorizations, especially for BVLOS operations, the FAA is moving towards a streamlined system under the proposed Part 108 rule. Operators must apply for either an Operating Permit (for lower-risk, limited scope uses) or an Operating Certificate (for higher-risk, complex operations). These applications require demonstrating compliance with safety requirements, possibly developing a Safety Management System and training programs, and undergoing FAA review before issuance.
Specifically regarding an LOA, it serves as an FAA supplemental certificate or permission authorizing certain equipment usage or operational privileges, such as the use of an MEL. To obtain one, operators must prepare a signed, written request referring to the specific LOA type needed, submit it to the appropriate FAA office, and include any required supporting documentation. The FAA will then evaluate the request, which may include review and possible negotiation before receiving official approval.
In drone operations, an LOA typically authorizes activities that fall outside standard limitations, such as flying in controlled airspace, operating Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS), or conducting nighttime missions. These LOAs help mitigate risk and demonstrate that the operator has met safety, communication, and procedural standards required for non-standard missions.
Timelines for receiving an LOA can vary depending on the complexity of the request and the airspace involved. Unauthorized drone operations where an LOA is required can result in fines, license suspensions, or legal actions. As drone use expands into complex commercial applications like infrastructure inspections, emergency response, and urban delivery, LOAs are increasingly crucial.
In summary, obtaining an LOA typically involves submitting a formal, written request to the FAA with any required supporting documentation, followed by FAA review and official issuance. For drone operations beyond basic permissions, new FAA rules propose a more formalized permitting or certification process, replacing case-by-case LOAs and waivers for complex or BVLOS drone operations. This ensures compliance with safety and regulatory standards prior to flying drones beyond visual line of sight or engaging in operations with higher risks or larger fleets.
Required Air Traffic Control (ATC) coordination is necessary before each flight. LOAs are often mission-specific but may also apply for extended timeframes depending on use case and operator experience. The LOA is specific to drone operations, and the mission must strictly follow all conditions laid out in the LOA. Deviations can result in fines or revocation.
For example, a construction company has obtained an LOA to operate drones near a Class D airport for routine structural inspections. The Letter of Authorization outlines the scope, duration, and conditions of the authorization, serving as official legal permission to operate under otherwise prohibited scenarios.
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