Airport Information
Gray Army Airfield (KGRF) is an active U.S. Army aviation facility at Joint Base Lewis-McChord near Tacoma, Washington. FAA terminal procedure data identifies Gray AAF with GRF/KGRF, and nearby UAS operations should consider Army aviation activity, controlled airspace, and JBLM installation restrictions. See the FAA terminal procedures listing for GRF/KGRF and the official JBLM site.
This airport is classified as Class D / JBLM airspace vicinity airspace. Drone flights within its designated airspace boundary require authorization before launching.
Airport Airspace Map
Interactive FAA ArcGIS map centered on KGRF with LAANC grid overlay and controlled airspace details.
Safety & Compliance
Before flying near KGRF, pilots should:
- Confirm controlled-airspace authorization needs under 14 CFR 107.41.
- Check current NOTAMs, TFRs, and UAS Facility Map data for the exact Tacoma/JBLM launch point.
- Do not operate from or over JBLM property without controlling authority permission.
Airspace Restrictions
KGRF airspace planning should start with B4UFLY, LAANC availability, airport proximity, and any Temporary Flight Restrictions that may affect launch or recovery.
- Controlled airspace: Gray AAF and McChord Field create a complex JBLM airspace environment.
- Military activity: Helicopter and Army aviation operations can be frequent and low-altitude.
- Nearby airports: Review McChord Field, Tacoma Narrows, and Seattle-area controlled airspace.
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
Related city and state pages
- Washington drone laws - State-specific regulations, park rules, and local law context
- Tacoma, Washington - Local city rules, nearby airports, and preflight planning details
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- Browse all city drone law pages