KEDW Drone Restrictions Near Edwards Air Force Base

Airport Information

Edwards Air Force Base (KEDW) is an active U.S. Air Force flight test installation in Kern County, California, with FAA-published procedures for Edwards AFB. Drone operations nearby require careful review because the area includes controlled airport airspace and nearby Special Use Airspace associated with military flight test activity. See the FAA terminal procedures listing for EDW/KEDW and the official Edwards AFB site.

This airport is classified as Class D / Special Use Airspace vicinity airspace. Drone flights within its designated airspace boundary require authorization before launching.

Airport Airspace Map

Interactive FAA ArcGIS map centered on KEDW with LAANC grid overlay and controlled airspace details.

Safety & Compliance

Before flying near KEDW, pilots should:

• Check controlled airspace authorization requirements under 14 CFR 107.41.
• Do not operate in prohibited or restricted areas unless permission is obtained from the using or controlling agency as required by 14 CFR 107.45.
• Review TFRs, NOTAMs, and Special Use Airspace for the exact launch point before each flight.

Airspace Restrictions

KEDW airspace planning should start with B4UFLY, LAANC availability, airport proximity, and any Temporary Flight Restrictions that may affect launch or recovery.

• SUA note: The Edwards area is UAS-sensitive because of military flight test operations and nearby restricted airspace.
• Controlled airspace: FAA authorization may be required before launch depending on the specific grid and airspace boundary.
• Security: Operations on or over installation property may require installation permission.

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
• B4UFLY: Always run a B4UFLY check immediately before launch to catch last-minute TFRs and NOTAMs

Connected location pages

Nearby Flight Planning Pages