Zero Grid

On an Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) UAS Data Map or UAS Facility Map (UASFM), the color of the grid overlay—specifically whether a grid is red or black/green—does not change the fact that a "0" means a 0-foot AGL altitude ceiling.

However, the color of the boundary line or the grid itself tells you how you are allowed to request authorization to fly there and whether the airport supports automated processing.

Here is the exact difference:

1. Black / Green Grids (LAANC-Enabled Airspace)

When you see standard black grids (which often display with a green tint or highlight on many interactive UAS mapping applications), it means the airport is part of the LAANC (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability) network.

• What "0" Means Here: The FAA has set a pre-approved safety ceiling of 0 feet for automated, instant approvals (usually because it is directly under a runway approach path).

• How to Fly: Because it is a LAANC-enabled airport, you can still use a LAANC app (like AirControl or DroneUp) to submit a "further coordination" request if you are a Part 107 pilot. The app routes your request to the local Air Traffic Control (ATC) tower for manual safety review, which can take anywhere from a few hours to a couple of days.

2. Red Grids (Non-LAANC Airspace / Red Zones)

When the grids or the airport airspace boundaries are highlighted in red, it indicates that LAANC is completely unavailable for that entire airport or specific safety zone.

• What "0" Means Here: The ceiling is 0 feet, and there is no automated infrastructure set up to process quick requests.

• How to Fly: You cannot use a LAANC app to request access to a red 0-grid. To fly there, you must manually log into the FAA DroneZone website and submit a formal Part 107 Airspace Authorization or Waiver application. This manual review process is handled by FAA headquarters and local ATC, and it typically requires a safety justification and a lead time of several weeks.