Latest Updates

(current as of 10/23/2025)

• *New* 10/23/2025:  New information on DOI/USFS Certificates of Authorization.  

• *Recent* 6/18/2025:  An updated Flight by Notification/Special Government Interest Waiver process is available.

UAS Information for Wildland Firefighters

Interagency Aviation Information Bulletin 2021-07 "Wildland Fire UAS Briefing for Aviation Personnel" is a 2 page summary of UAS operations on incidents. 

3/26/2025:  NWCG UAS Capabilities and Limitations Video  

Agency operated Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) are becoming more prevalent and more capable every year. This video is designed to provide all firefighters with a baseline understanding of UAS capabilities and limitations. Through that lens the video covers typing, communications, integration in the Fire Traffic Area, decision making when ordering, and updates in the Incident Response pocket guide.

Interagency UAS Operations

Goal

• Safely, effectively, and efficiently employ UAS in support of resource program, or incident management objectives.

Objectives

• Develop UAS operations capacity through standard safety, training, flight, data collection, data processing, and project management processes.
• Develop a contract program (data and flight), which supports incident and resource management objectives.

Summary:

UAS can positively impact every resource program by utilizing state of the art equipment. UAS derived data and imagery empowers scientists, incident personnel, and senior leaders to make informed decisions based on precise and real-time information. Data gathered from UAS is unique due to the ability of the aircraft to fly low, slow, and for long periods of time while collecting high-resolution imagery and sub-centimeter data.