Airport Information
Albuquerque International (KABQ) is an aviation facility located near Albuquerque, New Mexico. Drone operations in the vicinity of this airport are subject to FAA airspace rules and may require prior authorization through LAANC or direct coordination with air traffic control.
Radio Frequencies
Monitor these frequencies for safe operations near KABQ. Drone pilots are not required to transmit but monitoring helps situational awareness.
Tower
118.3 MHz
Air traffic control, landing clearances
Ground
121.75 MHz
Taxiway and ground operations
ATIS
119.05 MHz
Automated terminal information service
CTAF
118.3 MHz
Common traffic advisory frequency
Safety & Compliance
Before flying near KABQ, pilots should:
- Check LAANC (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability) for instant authorization
- Verify current NOTAMs and TFRs using FAA B4UFLY or the FAA DroneZone
- Stay clear of all runway approaches and departure paths
- Monitor the airport CTAF or tower frequency for manned aircraft activity
- Avoid operations during high-traffic periods (peak hours, special events)
- Maintain visual line of sight and yield right-of-way to all manned aircraft
Airspace Restrictions
KABQ is located in controlled airspace. Key restrictions for drone operations:
- Controlled Airspace: Drone operations require ATC authorization — use LAANC for low-altitude approvals or contact the tower directly for other requests
- Runway Proximity: Avoid flight within 2 nautical miles of the runway without explicit authorization
- Altitude Limit: Maximum 400 feet AGL (14 CFR 107.51) unless authorized for higher operations
- Visual Line of Sight: Maintain VLOS at all times (14 CFR 107.31)
- Manned Aircraft: Yield right-of-way and do not interfere with airport operations under any circumstances
Airport Airspace Map
Interactive FAA ArcGIS map centered on KABQ with LAANC grid overlay and controlled airspace details. Always verify in FAA systems before flight.
Legend & Authorization Guidance
- Class B — LAANC/FAA authorization required before drone flight in controlled areas.
- Class C — LAANC/FAA authorization required; expect tighter operational limits near runways.
- Class D — LAANC/FAA authorization required around towered airport surface areas.
- Class E — Authorization may be required where UAS Facility Map grids indicate controlled airspace.
Check real-time status in B4UFLY and request approval via LAANC before launch.
Federal Regulations (14 CFR Part 107)
- 107.21 – In-flight emergency procedures and right-of-way rules
- 107.25 – Operation from a moving vehicle or aircraft prohibited
- 107.31 – Visual line of sight requirement
- 107.35 – Preflight checks required before each flight
- 107.39 – Remote pilot in command responsibilities
- 107.51 – Operating altitude limited to 400 feet AGL
How to Get Authorization
- LAANC: Use the LAANC system for instant low-altitude authorization near supported airports — available through apps such as Aloft, Kittyhawk, and others
- FAA DroneZone: Request a Part 107 airspace authorization via faadronezone.faa.gov for operations not covered by LAANC
- Contact ATC: Call the KABQ tower on 118.3 MHz for specific operational requests
- B4UFLY: Always run a B4UFLY check immediately before launch to catch last-minute TFRs and NOTAMs
Nearby Airports
Other airports and controlled airspace facilities in the area:
- KDUU — Double Eagle II Airport (20 miles)
Related Locations
- New Mexico drone laws — State-specific regulations and requirements
- Albuquerque, New Mexico — Local city regulations and compliance guide