After helping dozens of new pilots get their LAANC authorizations, I've noticed the same mistakes happening over and over. Here are the top 3 errors that will get your request denied and how to avoid them:

• Location accuracy issues - GPS drift can put you outside authorized grid boundaries
• AGL vs MSL altitude confusion - Your altimeter might show different readings than what LAANC expects
• Time window violations - Not understanding authorization duration limits

I'll break down each one with solutions that actually work.

Location accuracy represents a frequent error source. LAANC authorizations are location-specific based on grid squares. Operating outside authorized grid boundaries, even by small distances, violates authorization terms. Always double-check your GPS coordinates before takeoff.

The altitude confusion is real! Altitude confusion between AGL and MSL causes compliance problems. LAANC authorizations specify AGL limits, but aircraft altimeters may display MSL. In elevated terrain, failing to account for ground elevation when interpreting altimeter readings can result in exceeding authorized AGL altitudes.

This is exactly why I failed my first few requests. Using GPS-enabled flight planning tools helps operators maintain awareness of grid boundaries during operations. Invest in a good app that shows the grid overlays clearly - it's worth it.