Airport Proximity Rules: Dallas vs Irving
How do airport proximity rules rules compare between Dallas, TX and Irving, TX?
Dallas and Irving have similar restriction levels.
Dallas, TX
Dallas County
Dallas sits inside controlled Class B and Class D airspace around DFW International and Dallas Love Field. Drone pilots must obtain Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability authorization from the FAA before flying, regardless of recreational or commercial status.
View full Dallas rules →Irving, TX
Dallas County
Drone flights near DFW International, Dallas Love Field, and Addison Airport require FAA authorization through LAANC or DroneZone. Controlled airspace covers most of Dallas County. Recreational and commercial pilots must request approval.
View full Irving rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Dallas | Irving |
|---|---|---|
| Authorization | FAA LAANC required | - |
| DFW airspace class | Class B | - |
| Love Field airspace | Class D | - |
| Max altitude | 0 to 400 feet by grid | - |
| Federal authority | FAR Part 107 and 44809 | - |
| Authorization tool | - | FAA LAANC system |
| DFW airspace | - | Class B; broad coverage |
| Love Field | - | Class B/C airspace |
| Addison Airport | - | Class D airspace |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Dallas FAQ
Can I fly a drone in my Dallas backyard near DFW?
Only with FAA LAANC authorization. Most Dallas backyards lie inside controlled airspace where unauthorized flight is a federal violation. Use the LAANC app on your phone to request near real-time approval before takeoff.
Are recreational pilots exempt from LAANC near Love Field?
No. Recreational flyers under 49 U.S.C. Section 44809 must also use LAANC inside controlled airspace, complete the TRUST safety test, and stay within posted altitude grids. Class D airspace has no recreational exception from authorization.
Irving FAQ
Can I fly my drone in my Dallas backyard?
Likely yes, but check B4UFLY or LAANC. Much of Dallas sits under Class B controlled airspace requiring FAA authorization. Maximum altitudes vary by location near airports.
Is LAANC free?
Yes. LAANC authorization through approved apps like Aloft, AirMap, or DJI is free and typically instant for grids the FAA pre-approves. Manual review through DroneZone takes longer.
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