A NOTAM (Notice to Air Missions) is an official alert issued by the FAA to inform pilots — including drone pilots — of temporary changes or hazards in the airspace. These notices can include:
Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs)
Emergency response activity
VIP movement (like the President or large public events)
Natural disasters
Airspace closures or special use airspace updates
Drone pilots must check NOTAMs before every flight to ensure they are not operating in restricted or hazardous airspace.
A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is a specific type of NOTAM that prohibits or limits flight activity — including drone flights — in a defined area for a specific time period. Common reasons for TFRs include:
Presidential travel or other VIPs
Large public events (e.g., Super Bowl, parades)
Wildfires or natural disasters
Emergency or law enforcement operations
Flying a drone within a TFR zone without authorization is illegal and can result in fines, enforcement action, or even criminal charges.
Check NOTAMs using the FAA’s B4UFLY app, FAA NOTAM search tool, or flight planning software
Avoid flying in TFR areas
If authorized to fly in controlled airspace, ensure your waiver or LAANC approval does not conflict with a NOTAM
Bottom Line: NOTAMs and TFRs are essential safety tools. Always review them before launching your drone — especially for commercial or public safety operations — to ensure you're flying legally and responsibly.