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To prepare an application on e-AAN, first define what you will capture, where, when and with what equipment. Operator registration with ANAC and access to e-AAN are separate processes. An aerial survey authorisation also does not remove flight restrictions or the rights of people who appear in the images.
This guide sets out how to prepare and read the decision. The platform fields may change; use the AAN application guide as a reference when completing it.
Which authorisation are you applying for?
The AAN’s official information for drones distinguishes aerial surveys and operations in airspace under military jurisdiction. The scope of the decision issued must be read in the document itself. Do not turn “I have AAN authorisation” into “I can fly anywhere”.
| Question | What to check |
|---|---|
| Operator and pilot | Registration and competency required for the operation |
| Flight location | Geographical zones, conditions and any temporary restrictions |
| Image capture | AAN application and applicable conditions |
| Protected area or maritime domain | Whether other authorisations are needed from the competent authority |
| Identifiable people | Privacy, image rights and any processing of personal data |
Start with our guide to ANAC registration if you have not dealt with that part yet. The operator number is not proof of authorisation for the capture you are planning.
Create access and prepare the application
The AAN guide provides for registration, confirmation of the email address and submission of the required declaration to validate access. Use the e-AAN portal and follow the instructions received. Do not send identity documents through intermediaries you found in a social media comment.
Once you have access, prepare the identification details for the aircraft and pilot, the operating area, dates, times and purpose. The guide specifies a minimum of ten days’ notice for submission. Allow time and check the portal’s current notices before scheduling work that depends on authorisation.
A preparation sheet to avoid vague applications
Before opening the form, create a note for each operation. The sheet below is a planning tool, not a reproduction of the platform’s mandatory fields.
- What I want to deliver: photographs, video or another product.
- Who will use the material and for what purpose.
- Take-off location and the area actually needed for the capture.
- Dates and time window in which I can carry out the work.
- Drone, pilot and available documentation.
- Restrictions I have already checked and additional decisions on which I depend.
- Alternative plan if the flight cannot take place.
For example, “photographing the exterior of a property for commercial promotion” explains the activity better than “flying for leisure” if the actual aim is to deliver images to an agency. The stated purpose must match what you will do. Do not copy another pilot’s application without reviewing every detail.
Draw only the area needed
Check the coordinates on the map and compare them with the terrain. Swapping latitude and longitude or defining an area that is too wide may include places you did not intend to fly over. Do not enlarge the area to compensate for planning that is still undefined.
According to the e-AAN guide, the definition may involve a circular area, polygon or route, depending on the case. After submission, the options for making corrections depend on the application’s status. Review the details before saving and use the assigned reference when contacting the AAN.
Submitted does not mean authorised
Track the status on the platform and save the decision as a PDF when the application is approved. Read the dates, area, altitude and conditions before preparing for the flight. Keep a copy that is accessible without relying on mobile coverage and check that it corresponds to that day’s operation.
If the authorisation does not cover a change you need to make, clarify it with the competent authority. An email acknowledging receipt or an application still under assessment does not replace a favourable decision.
Images of people: also plan how they will be used
Decide how you will avoid capturing identifiable people unnecessarily, restrict access to the originals and handle requests relating to the images. The CNPD explains the rights of data subjects. Do not assume that aviation authorisation exempts you from data protection obligations or consents required in other contexts.
To prepare the complete operation, cross-check this application against the flight zones and the guide to privacy and drones.
Official sources consulted on 10 October 2026. Informational guide; legislation, the decision issued and the authorities’ current instructions take precedence. Illustrative image.
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