The NSF portal is a NATS product but not all Controlled Airspace (CAS) is managed by NATS.

Applications for NSFs should be made with a minimum of 21 days notice – Note applications in the Restricted Areas in London may take longer.

For applications in the Restricted Areas please ensure you have sought permission/s from the relevant land owner, local authorities or other organisations impacted by the flight/task prior to submitting your application.

Applications submitted less than 7 days in advance of the flight may not be processed.

For all queries in relation to your application, please use the Contact us section on this page.

Operators/pilots will also be able use the website to request flight of UAS (more commonly known as drones) in the following Flight Restriction Zones (FRZ):

If you are operating within an airport FRZ not listed above you should not use this Portal but consult the AIP to contact the relevant airport authority.

The NSF portal is a NATS product and not all of UK airspace is managed by NATS, some parts are controlled by other ANSPs. The NSF portal can only provide permissions to those areas of Controlled Airspace managed by NATS.

Based on your selected location your request cannot be processed by NATS, therefore you are asked to consult the AIP for contact details and get in direct touch with the relevant authority. If your flight is within an airport Flight Restriction Zone (FRZ) not listed, you will need to contact them directly for further instructions on how to obtain approval to operate.

Please note this does NOT constitute permission/approval to proceed with your operation.

You must ensure you always adhere to the Drone Code and relevant articles of the Air Navigation Order.

Further information on rules, restrictions and best practice when flying your drone can be found on the DroneSafe website (https://dronesafe.uk/).