Most Part 107 operators are familiar with filing LAANC authorizations in controlled airspace. When in more sensitive airspace, such as a 0-foot LAANC grid or during a TFR, the FAA has an alternate option through the SGI (Special Government Interest) Waiver Process. This emergency authorization is limited to:
Firefighting
Includes Wildfire Suppression and Red Flag Warning Area Monitoring
Search and Rescue
Law Enforcement
Utility or Other Critical Infrastructure Restoration
Damage Assessments Supporting Disaster Recovery Related Insurance Claims
Media Coverage Providing Crucial Information to the Public
To apply for a waiver through the SGI process you must be an existing Part 107 Remote Pilot with a current certificate OR you must have an existing Certificate of Waiver or Authorization (COA).
Start by creating a mission
Using Missions to plan flights and organize pilot logs is a best practice in Air Control. To streamline the SGI process, we will set up a mission. The more information you include on the mission will make completing the SGI even easier. Include details such as:
Mission Title
Date, time, and duration
Location, and add a Mission Area to define the flight boundary
Include the Pilot in Command as well as any Visual Observers
Make sure their Part 107 and Phone Number are up to date
Add the Aircraft to the mission plan
Make sure the drone's registration is up to date
Describe the event in the mission notes.
When the mission is filled out and saved, the SGI Waiver option is available in the top-right corner of the mission panel.
Complete the remaining SGI details
Once the SGI window loads, you may have to add or adjust some details.
Check pilot address
This will be saved locally for the next request
Add the requested flight altitude
Select the nature of event
Mission notes will auto-populate
Choose additional pilot qualification, if applicable
If you check the "Save PDF to Mission?" box, it will add a copy to the Mission's documents when you select "Download & Save".
This process can also be done from the web dashboard on a mobile device to enhance flexibility during an emergency.
Download & Submit to the FAA
After downloading the PDF, you can then edit or adjust any information as needed, and then use the provided FAA channels for submitting and following up on requests.
The SGI Waiver Form PDF can now be emailed to the FAA's System Operations Support Center (SOSC) at 9-ator-hq-sosc@faa.gov. If approved, the FAA will add an amendment to your existing COA or Remote Pilot Certificate that authorizes you to fly under certain conditions for the specified operation. If denied, operators should NOT fly outside the provisions of their existing COA or part 107. Operators have the option to amend their requests.
Click here for more information about the FAA' SGI Waiver Form:
Example of completed SGI Form:
