Here’s something most drone pilots don’t realise: you can legally fly in some restricted flight zones, if you ask permission first. Counterintuitive, right? FRZs aren’t just “no-go” areas. They’re often controlled spaces that welcome responsible pilots who follow the rules.
I’ve been flying drones for a few years with my Flyer ID and A2 CofC. After just a couple of months flying, I soon realised that I wanted to capture better photos, create more cinematic films and fly in more places. So I naturally wanted to know more about flight restriction zones.
When you look at The Drone Map, you’ll see hundreds of restricted flight zones, some within key areas of interest. So I naturally wanted to know more about these restricted zones.
Within this article, I’ll show you exactly how to request permission, along with a couple of examples where I have needed to fly within an FRZ. It’s not overly complicated, but it is essential. You must not, under any circumstances, fly within an FRZ without prior permission.
If you’re reading this article, I’m assuming you already understand the drone safety regulations and know where you can and cannot fly.
Who Sets the Rules (and Keeps the Map Updated)?
All UK drone regulations come from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), the national body that oversees everything from commercial airliners to the smallest recreational drones. They’re the ones who define FRZs around airports, heliports, and even some spaceports.
The CAA sets the rules, and Altitude Angel keeps you up to date through its GuardianUTM platform, which acts as the CAA’s live data network. GuardianUTM feeds the Drone Safety Map with real-time updates on FRZ boundaries, temporary restrictions, and NOTAMs, giving you the same airspace information used by air traffic controllers.
When a new restriction appears, such as a temporary FRZ for an airshow or emergency, it’s added to the map almost instantly. Checking the map before every flight isn’t just good practice; it’s how you stay legal and current.
How to Request Permission to Fly Within a FRZ
How to notify other airspace users about your activity – Requesting a NOTAM.
As with most things, there’s more than one way to go about achieving your goal. This is the process I use, which is the easiest for me. You may want to explore other ways to get the same outcome.
Identify and Plan Your Flight Path
The first and most obvious approach is to plan your flight. If you’re desired flight path is within an FRZ, you’ll need to request permission.
Identify the FRZ
The Drone Safety Map is an excellent way to identify the FRZ you’re dealing with. Just click on any red zone, and a pop-up box will appear showing all the key details. In this example, I’m using Newquay Airport.
When I click on the red circle around the airport, a box appears with the status “Notification Available.” That means I can submit a flight request directly through the Altitude Angel Operator Portal to apply for permission.
I’ll go into details about this process below, but some airports don’t have a direct connection with Altitude Angel via the UTM Platform, but their contact information may be listed. As in this example:
You’ll see two contact numbers listed that you can call to request permission directly. Alternatively, you can use the UK ATC contact website to find the details for Air Traffic Control at Land’s End. It’s essentially a one-stop resource for most ATC contact information across the UK. I simply searched for “Land’s End” and found both the phone number and email address.
Requesting Permission via Altitude Angel
As described above, select the FRZ, and scroll down the pop-up until you see the ‘Notify Facility’ button.
Log in, or sign up for an Altitude Angel account to begin the process.
Step One. Area of Operation
Firstly, select a flight path or flight area.
Next, complete the following information: max height, start time, end time, title and description. Here’s an example.
Step Two. Pilot
This step will be auto-completed with the same information when you registered on Altitude Angel. Just check and confirm everything is as it should be. You need a valid mobile and email.
Stage Three. Aircraft
Now select or enter the details of your aircraft. You’ll need to know the colour, manufacturer, model and most importantly, the weight. The type of aircraft might be a deciding factor on the permission.
Stage Four. Documents Required
If you’re flying recreationally, you’ll only need to upload your flyer ID. If you’re flying commercially, you’ll need to upload proof of your Flyer ID, insurance documents and a risk assessment form.
Stage Five. Approval Service
The final stage of the process will provide further details of the permission required and list any required fees for this service.
In this example, there is no fee for recreational flights, but there is a £20 fee for commercial flights.
The final stage will provide a summary of your flight request. This will be assessed, and you will be notified via email with a decision within three days.
Remember, even approved flights can be cancelled at any time. On the day of your flight, keep your phone on and ready; ATC may call with last-minute changes.
If your flight isn’t approved, review the details and adjust your plan. Sometimes your proposed flight overlaps with a scheduled manned aircraft. In that case, consider modifying your flight path or lowering your maximum altitude.
You can check the airport’s flight schedules to find a quieter time. Alternatively, reducing your maximum height to 50 meters can help avoid conflicts with other aircraft.
Calling an ATC for Permission
Calling an ATC directly is another reasonable approach to requesting permission to fly within an FRZ; however, you might be directed to submit your request via email.
When calling, the ATC the operator will likely ask you a few questions about yourself, the drone and your planned flight. Try to have these prepared for a quick, seamless interaction.
Details ATC May Ask For
- Pilot Information
- Full name and contact number
- Flyer ID / Operator ID
- Proof of insurance (if commercial)
- Drone Details
- Make and model
- Maximum take-off weight
- Flight Details
- Exact location (coordinates, clear description or What Three Words)
- Date and start/end times
- Maximum altitude planned
- Duration of the flight
- Purpose of the flight (e.g., photography, survey, recreation)
- Safety Measures
- Planned flight path or route
- Take-off and landing points
- Emergency landing areas
- Steps to ensure no interference with manned aircraft
- Other Considerations
- Number of planned take-offs and landings
- Whether the flight will be beyond visual line of sight (if applicable)
- Any local environmental considerations (e.g., wildlife, public areas)
You will find the level of questioning will vary from airport to airport. High traffic areas are much more likely to want more detailed answers. Likewise, your specific flight location may be more concerning, especially if it’s within a flight path. Be prepared and be as specific as possible with your answers.
Emailing an ATC for Permission
Email is another viable option for requesting permission to fly your drone in an FRZ. Here’s an example template you can use:
Subject: Request for Drone Flight Permission – [Location/FRZ Name]
Dear [ATC Contact Name or “Air Traffic Control Team”],
My name is [Your Name], and I am a licensed drone pilot holding a Flyer ID and A2 Certificate of Competency (CofC). I am writing to request permission to operate a drone within the FRZ near [Airport Name / FRZ Location].
Flight Details:
- Location: [Exact location or coordinates]
- Date and Time: [Start time] to [End time], [Date]
- Maximum Altitude: [e.g., 100 feet / 30 meters] above ground level
- Purpose: [e.g., Filming Watergate Bay beach and hotel resorts]
- Drone: [Make and model, e.g., DJI Mavic 3, weight]
- Planned Flights: [Number of take-offs/landings and approximate duration]
- Safety Measures: Line of sight maintained at all times, identified emergency landing points, avoidance of other airspace users
I have insurance coverage in place and will follow all applicable CAA regulations. Please let me know if you require any additional information or documentation.
Thank you for considering my request. I will keep my phone available on the day of the flight in case of any last-minute instructions.
Kind regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Contact Number]
[Email Address]
[Operator ID / Flyer ID / A2 CofC Reference]
Flying a drone within a restricted area without permission can have serious consequences. Be sure to obtain the correct permission before you fly, or you could face criminal charges. Read more here: https://gadgets-n-tech.com/drone-penalties-uk-what-happens-if-you-fly-in-restricted-airspace/
Drone Flight within Restricted Areas – Useful Resources
Here’s a list of useful resources that will help you find out more information and check the details within this article.
CAA (Civil Aviation Authority) Resources
- Aerodromes, Heliports & Spaceports: Detailed guidance on FRZs and how to request permission to fly within them.
- Airspace Restrictions: Information on permanent and temporary airspace restrictions, including FRZs.
- Airspace Access Report: Procedure for reporting if you believe your request for permission is turned down unreasonably.
- UAS Airspace Restrictions Guidance and Policy (CAP 722C): Comprehensive policy document detailing airspace restrictions and procedures for unmanned aircraft systems.
- Event and Obstacle Notification: Useful links and contacts for reporting obstacles or events that might affect drone operations.
Altitude Angel Resources
- Drone Safety Map: Free, real-time airspace and ground hazard map for drone operators.
- GuardianUTM: Altitude Angel’s platform for managing and approving drone operations across various airspace and land management needs.
- UTM Ready Programme: Information on how facilities can become UTM Ready to streamline drone approvals.
- Frequently Asked Questions: Answers to common questions about drone operations and airspace management.
Contacting ATC and Aerodromes
- UK ATC Contact Information: A comprehensive list of contact details for air traffic control units across the UK.
- Air Navigation Service Providers & Aviation Authorities: Information on various air navigation service providers and aviation authorities in the UK.
Conclusion
Flying in a restricted flight zone isn’t as intimidating as it first seems. With the right preparation—checking the Drone Safety Map, understanding FRZ rules, and knowing how to contact ATC or the CAA, you can capture amazing footage safely and legally. Remember to plan carefully, submit your request early, and stay flexible on the day of the flight. A little effort upfront not only keeps you compliant but also gives you the freedom to explore locations most drone pilots only dream of.
Your drone adventures don’t have to stop at the FRZ boundary; they just start with permission.