How to Use LAANC with the Kittyhawk App | Best Drone App I Have Used

How to Use LAANC with the Kittyhawk App | Best Drone App I Have Used. This app does a lot. It is not free, but for Part 107 operators or hobbyists that want one place to check sectional charts, NOTAMS, TFRs, weather/METARS, manage their fleet of drones and a bunch of other stuff, this is the only app I know of that does all of it. Submit airspace authorization requests via LAANC, create flight plans, preflight checklists, maintenance logs, and sync DJI flight data, keep up with battery health, number of drone flights and hours, etc. Full disclosure, I was provided with full access to the app in order to provide my honest opinions.
PLEASE KEEP READING FOR ADDITIONAL REFLECTIONS
I did notice that some of my flight data failed to sync from the DJI Go 4 App. I will contact support through the app to find out what's up.
You get access to basic maps and basic weather for free, but that's about it. in order to gain access to other features you'll need to sign up for one of the paid subscriptions. From what I've seen, the Pilot in Command (PIC) plan for $14.99/month is where you get most of the features a commercial operator would be interested in such as airspace authorizations, sectional charts, flight planning, maintenance logs, etc.
So, in order to really take advantage of all of the features--including LAANC--you'll need to pay a monthly subscription for the PIC plan.
Links to the Kittyhawk App
Apple App Store: itunes.apple.com/us/app/kitty...
Google Play: play.google.com/store/apps/de...
It is also available on PC here: kittyhawk.io/
I explain more about LAANC here and also show you how to submit authorization requests for free using the Airmap app: • How to Use LAANC with ...
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I am an FAA Part 107 sUAS Certificate holder. While FUN is always the objective for me, I also believe in adherence to the rules set forth in order to fly safely and smartly.
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[@GadgetInspector]

Are you using Kittyhawk? What app or apps are you using? Which ones do you recommend?

[@FelonyRadio]

After watching this I decided to give Kittyhawk a try. I didn't see the ability to get authorization so I sent them an email. I was then contacted by phone. Long story short after receiving an email after the phone call turns out they don't cater to the single user, they are looking for bigger fish, and the email stated 5 K a year starting packages. So my question to you is, based on what I see in your video, are you a single user and by single user I mean single pilot, or are you working for a bigger company or yourself a bigger company? Because honestly I would like to use this program but being a single pilot i.e. owner operator, as far as LAANC is concerned it is a useless program you're not just myself but anyone who is a single pilot.

[@kteen7409]

@@FelonyRadio Kittyhawk.io is free to use for individual pilots (Including LAANC)! They also opened up access on their web client. And Yes, you can fly your DJI hardware in Kittyhawk. Weather, Airspace, LAANC, Flight Logging, Checklists, Risk Assessments, Maintenance, Reporting - It's got it all.

[@jeffdunlap146]

Currently using AirMap and am looking for a simple app to track maintenance. Also FYI I've been using MiraCheck CoPilot for preflight checklists and it is amazing.

[@inspiredartphotos]

Another excellent video on a LAANC alternative to AirMap. Video was short sweet and to the point. Great job!

[@GadgetInspector]

Hey I appreciate that. Thanks for watching.

[@joshuaziering8556]

Thanks for the awesome review! Very thorough. I love the side by side. Nicely done.

[@jetmartin9501]

When is KittyHawk going to add LAANC support for Android? Android only has an 85% market share worldwide.

[@gaylonwampler]

Thank You Sir! Very concise and informative! I have subscribed and look forward to your wisdom!

[@GadgetInspector]

Thanks Gaylon, I'm glad it was useful. Thanks for the sub as well.

[@gillynova]

Thanks for the video brodie! Cheers and stay safe nowadays.

[@GadgetInspector]

Thanks, you too!

[@jscook54]

Very cool! I got this app based on your recommendation. Appreciate the help sir.

[@GadgetInspector]

Thanks Janet, glad it helped. It really is a great app.

[@andrewap77]

My Brother, first I want to say thank you for all your post and the professional way you present them. Ok that looks and sounds like a pretty good app I have 3 drones Mavic, Yunnec Q500, and a Evo. Now I do follow all the rules. But I wonder if Big Brother is watching you and I don't mind cause thy should be. But anyway Thank you.

[@GadgetInspector]

What's up Tank? Anybody that doesn't believe they're being watched is delusional in this day and age. I would say buying and regularly using a shredder is the most effective thing you can do though. That and alternate identities online. Otherwise, just live your life.

[@RonaldBrown59]

Nice demo of the the Kittyhawk app. I have been using AirMap and it has many of the same features, you can even fly your DJI drone with AirMap

[@GadgetInspector]

Yep, AirMap is a good one for sure.

[@nes.torfernandez]

Ron Brown I never got my fly confirmation at airmap I don’t know why

[@dronereviewman9580]

Very cool app!!! 👍😀👍

[@CharlesDouglas]

Nice video. I have been using kittyhawk over a year now. It actually is better now than before. Lol. Blessings.

[@GadgetInspector]

Yep, they definitely gave it a facelift.

[@CharlesDouglas]

@@GadgetInspector 👊💯

[@BillTheDroneReviewer]

Great video. I’ve been using AirMap myself.

[@GadgetInspector]

That's a good one. I have used AirMap quite a bit. Great free app.

[@jerryrobison3786]

AirMap seems buggy to me.

[@michaelsims4475]

Hi GI! I just loaded kittyhawk onto my Samsung phone and cannot seem to get to the authorizations section. When I click (+ Add) and (Create Mission), i get a pop up message that says "coming soon." Does it work on Android? Thanks, Great videos! Michael.

[@vinhha6073]

Thank you but if I use my phone with the control, I still can open the app back out for officer checking...???

[@stevelester6998]

Quick question... do you get all aspects of your flight plan done before you connect your phone to the DJI controller?

[@raindanse8466]

Hi, me again. I can’t believe you keep popping up on all that I am doing. Love your videos. Now that I passed 107, I’m a little apprehensive to fly. I’ve used Skymap and B4UFLY before and actually got a few authorization over the summer (thank you for pointing out Authorizations and Waivers are two completely different things). I never knew KittyHawk has the full capibilities in its usability. But since it looked so complicated, I left it alone. I’m excited to learn it takes the place of DJIGo app. I can’t comprehend how it does DJI’S part. I’ll fly later using it, I just want to make sure that I am NOT to launch DJI app and I don’t need it to fly? Just use KittyHawk? I can’t wait to see all the data transfer over, I heard that correctly? That’s sick. And scary, lol.

[@GadgetInspector]

Hey there, glad you're enjoying the vids. Just to clarify....you'll still need to launch the DJIGo4 app, but your flight data will sync with the Kittyhawk app. That's great for a lot of reasons. The other thing to consider is that DJI drones all have no fly zone restrictions. This is completely separate from the FAA designated airspace. So you'll still need to do the "unlock" procedure in DJIGo4 if you're in a no fly zone....even if you received an authorization via LAANC.

[@raindanse8466]

Gadget Inspector : I like that Kittyhawk. Initially, I was rushing thru it as It took a little bit to get acclimated. But shortly, I got the hang of it. I was blown away to have all the DJI data synch over. Very nice app. Thank you for the introduction.

[@alexprieto1940]

App doesn't have LAANC ability on Android devices, tried using website, submitted a day before but still says "requested" on status. So, does the web work from anyone elses experience??

[@Loft54]

Good job inspector! It now works for us hobbyists! Thanks!

[@andrelewis2693]

At the 1:20 mark of this video you stated "there is no need to submit a request when you are not in controlled airspace" So with that said are you saying that because Chief Hazy Cloud Park (in looking on your phone in this video) is not in that airspace you can just go there and fly a drone in Chief Hazy Cloud Park without needing FAA authorization (assuming that an altitude is given)? I ask because the Kittyhawk app sometimes give altitude of 200 ft but there is no button to ask for authorization so am I to assume that it is not needed if it is not in a controlled airspace?

[@GadgetInspector]

Yep, you only need authorization in controlled airspace.

[@WesMann]

Thanks for sharing! Question: Once authorized will pilots/aircraft in mid air nearby be notified in any way?

[@GadgetInspector]

My understanding is that this notifies ATC. I would imagine they make the decision whether to notify manned aircraft.

[@WesMann]

@@GadgetInspector Thanks for the quick reply. I wonder how that would work at smaller airports without ATC.

[@SlimSh8E]

So when you say "sync DJI flight data" do you mean that you don't have to go through the process of getting permission from DJI to fly in certain (restricted by DJI) areas?

[@GadgetInspector]

Nope, DJI and LAANC do not interface at all. The sync is only from the DJI Go 4 app to the Kittyhawk app.

[@cuuppaajoe]

Thank you as always Inspector! +1sub. Quick question. Do I need a part 107 license to request authorization or can I just be recreational? Thanks again for the great info.

[@GadgetInspector]

In my experience with this app, it only allows for authorization requests for part 107 operators. Check out the AirMap app though because it allows you to send flight plan notifications to air traffic control which applies to recreational operators.

[@cuuppaajoe]

Thank you so much for pointing me in the direction and getting back to me. I appreciate it!

[@cuuppaajoe]

As it turns out there is no app available that allows this for recreation. one must actually make the phone call to the tower.

[@styleclickmedia9161]

@@cuuppaajoe thats not true now unless the tower doesnt have LAANC, I fly in California regularly and use Kittyhawk for each event, it also allows you to add your inventory, flight plans, preflight, maintenance and other checklists there too, at least for now it does all of that without a cost.

[@cuuppaajoe]

@@styleclickmedia9161 Dude that was 2 years ago. I’m good now thanks.

[@CRA677]

Help me to understand this: Kittyhawk shows no restrictions in my planned area for flight. However, when looking at TAC maps, the same area indicates that I'm within Class C Airspace?

[@GadgetInspector]

What's the general area? I'll check how it's showing up on mine.

[@CRA677]

@@GadgetInspector I think I figured it out. I was mistaking a thin magenta line (mode-c) as being Class-C airspace. I'm trying to figure out all of the rules and be able to read TAC maps before I buy my first drone.

[@alphadrone06-aerialimagery47]

I have been using AirMap for LAANC, but after watching this video I maybe giving Kittyhawk a try. Thanks for the review 🙏🏾.

[@GadgetInspector]

Yeah check it out, it is pretty darn good. It just isn't free.

[@frednorman1]

So you have to check in ad a commercial drone operator even though most of us are recreational dronies. That seems odd that the FAA didn’t consider the difference

[@GadgetInspector]

The FAA started allowing recreational operators to use LAANC, I believe on July 23rd or so. www.faa.gov/uas/programs_partnerships/data_exchange/

[@michaelsims4475]

I just watched your video again, and looked at my app again. It does not even have "Request FAA Authorization" as an option on that screen. Maybe because I just downloaded it from Google Play. It did not ask me to pay any money. What does it cost? I don't see how to upgrade. Thanks. Michael.

[@GadgetInspector]

Hey Michael. I have an iPhone so I can't help much with Android. Before I got full access when I clicked on the + sign and selected one of the options it told me I had to upgrade. Keep playing around with it but if you still don't have any luck, reach out to customer support. You can even find them on Twitter and they will respond.

[@tonakkie635]

I am using Airmap (in the Netherlands). I live in a controlled airspace area 😕. I did not know that you could ask for permission via these Apps. Or this only possible with Kittyhawk app? And is this also possible in Europe, or is this US only?Thanks

[@GadgetInspector]

ton akkie Sorry, I should have been more specific. This is only for US airspace.

[@RogerSayers]

This is a neat app, But I prefer to use the software that DJI downloaded to my drones. I am always notified when I'm in a restricted flight zone. I have the numbers to the towers in my area and when I want to fly I call and request permission. So I'm good with my software.

[@GadgetInspector]

I hear ‘ya, but sounds like you may not be aware of recent changes made by the FAA. Actually good changes in my opinion. The FAA discourages calling ATC unless the airport is not yet included in the LAANC program. The new law now allows recreational operators to obtain real-time airspace authorizations. I recommend checking out this information: www.faa.gov/uas/recreational_fliers/. I think you’ll find it to be a much better alternative. I always felt like a ton of calls to ATC is nothing but a distraction causing accident waiting to happen anyway.

[@Loft54]

You no longer need to call them!

[@tonymcclendon-hobbytime7727]

😎👍🏽

[@warrendbaxter6910]

So, once you receive your laanc clearance, how do you connect the approval to the drone? I received a laanc approval for my drone and it was approved for a specific date but how will it give the permission to the drone? Will it automatically send it to the drone on the actual flight day? Thanks

[@GadgetInspector]

warren D BAXTER it doesn’t. There is no interface with the drone. Depending on the manufacturer you should just be able to launch and fly, such as with Parrot. With DJI, you may need to follow their NFZ unlock process additionally.

[@warrendbaxter6910]

Gadget Inspector thanks for the response, my bad I didn’t give you all the information, i have phantom 4 pro v2.0 and I used the kittyhawk app and received the authorization for this Wednesday, I’m using my iPad with the DJI go app to fly, so my question is how will the drone know that I received the authorization? What do i need to do next with this authorization?

[@GadgetInspector]

warren D BAXTER The authorization is from the FAA so if you are questioned about your flight you can prove that you received permission for that airspace. The drone doesn’t need to know. Follow the unlock procedure in the DJI Go 4 app if you can’t take off due to an NFZ.

[@warrendbaxter6910]

Gadget Inspector thanks again for your help man

[@hvdmey]

I got a reaction of my question why my phone number isn't working te verify, this app is only for the US.

[@GadgetInspector]

yes

[@chasingeets6128]

GI, Do you have a Video on Kittyhawk and Crystal Ski

[@GadgetInspector]

Sorry but I don't. That crystal sky is pricey 😉.

[@chasingeets6128]

Roger that GI and thanks for your quick response

[@w5cisvideos218]

where can I get instruction manual for Kitty Hawk

[@GadgetInspector]

Try their website. Also, reach out to the creators/owners out on Twitter. They will respond. They also have a KZbin channel....not sure how many tutorials are on there though.

[@joemarianna5906]

Cool video. I have no apps that I use. I don’t have a 107 license

[@GadgetInspector]

I hear ya Joe.

[@nes.torfernandez]

Joe Marianna you only need your part 101 5 dollars that all

[@jrc202]

Is this only for dji drones ?

[@GadgetInspector]

Nope, any drone.

[@DanWhitacre]

Airmap and UAV forecast.

[@GadgetInspector]

Those are good ones Dan.

[@jetmartin9501]

As far as I can tell NONE of the KittyHawk LAANC stuff works on Android...but hey Android only has an 85% market share worldwide. SMH!

[@GadgetInspector]

Really? Wow, I would not have expected that at all. Really surprises me. Well, try AirMap. Their app is 100% free anyway: kzbin.info/www/bejne/e4CpeJmefqiljpo.

[@styleclickmedia9161]

you know your kit link is wrong kit.com/GadgetInspector supposed to be kit.co/GadgetInspector

[@clark3830]

Use them and do NOT use the Airmap app. Airmap is working behind the scenes to kill the drone business except if you pay to play. Many restrictions they have no problem with at all.