AirMap is a free, comprehensive digital map that allows remotely pilot aircraft (RPA) operators to visualize the airspace around them, including areas where they may not be permitted to fly.
AirMap integrates multiple sources of data and gives RPA operators an easy-to-use, yet detailed, solution providing a single view of the restricted areas around an area of operation. The beta-version of the site is now live in the U.S. and launching internationally soon.
By focusing on airspace information from ground level up to 500 feet, AirMap strips away the clutter of higher altitude airspace labels found on charts that were created for manned aviation.
“As RPA use continues to expand, the airspace in which operators are flying is also growing more complex. With this in mind, we’ve launched AirMap, which will serve as a resource for drone operators to immediately fly safely and in compliance with legal requirements. We want to make safe flying easy,” said AirMap co-creator Ben Marcus.
Operators can select layers depicting the following:
- Recreational use, which will display the airspace areas around airports which are limited by community-based guidelines;
- “Blanket COA” rules applicable to holders of FAA Section 333 exemptions for commercial UAS operations; and
- Controlled airspace (Class B, C, D, and E) at 500 feet and below, allowing UAS operators to voluntarily comply with the airspace rules proposed in the FAA’s recent Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on the Operation and Certification of Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems.
“As a drone operator I found it hard to know what the airspace rules were in the places where I wanted to fly. There were no accurate visuals or reliable electronic tools that could tell me and other operators where we can and cannot fly. AirMap solves this problem and helps to educate operators about this complex regulatory environment,” said AirMap co-creator Dr. Gregory McNeal. “The demand for AirMap is clear, as it is the most thorough resource for drone operators to ensure safe, legal and hassle-free flight.”