A Pilot’s Guide to Understanding Restrictions in Today’s National Airspace System by Michael W. Brown
Introduction sons of national security. following the events of September 11, While TFRs may be triggered by 2001. While TFRs are nothing new, Temporary Flight Restrictions different events, it is important that pi- their use has grown significantly since (TFR) are tools used by the Federal lots familiarize themselves with each that time. However, it is important to Aviation Administration (FAA) to restrict type of restriction, and how it may im- note that other factors have con- aircraft operations within designated pact their proposed flight. Of equal tributed to the increased number of areas. Historically, TFRs have been importance, pilots must know how TFRs throughout the national airspace used by air traffic management as a best to gain information concerning system (NAS). One of these factors means of separating “non-participat- TFRs before each flight. Inadvertent was a regulatory change that also oc- ing” aircraft from those engaged in flight into a TFR not only places a curred, coincidently, in September of certain activities, such as firefighting, pilot’s certificate at risk; it also in- 2001. Title 14 of the Code of Federal rescue, and law enforcement opera- creases the chances of being inter- Regulations (14 CFR) part 91 was tions. They have also been used to cepted by military or law enforcement amended to include Section 91.145, keep aircraft away from surface-based aircraft. Even worse, straying into TFR Management of Aircraft Operations in hazards that could impact safety of airspace may increase the risk of a the Vicinity of Aerial Demonstrations flight, such as toxic gas spills or vol- mid-air collision. and Major Sporting Events. With this canic eruptions. However, over the change, events such as air shows in- past two years, TFRs, along with Air Changes in the National volving high performance aircraft or Defense Identification Zones (ADIZ) Airspace System military demonstration teams, as well and Flight Restriction Zones (FRZ), as major sporting events such as the have been widely used to restrict over- TFRs have become a topic of Indianapolis 500™ auto race or the flights through certain airspace for rea- great interest to general aviation pilots World Series™, may now trigger the
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2003 1 establishment of flight restrictions. Another factor contributing to TFR usage has been the increasingly active forest fire seasons of recent years. While Federal agencies take great pains to limit the size and frequency of flight restrictions, the nature of their work is such that it is necessary to keep nonparticipating air traffic segre- gated from aircraft engaged in fire- fighting activities. These factors, coupled with ongo- ing threats to national security, have created an operational environment that calls for greater vigilance and planning on the part of general avia- tion pilots.
TFRs in the NAS The charted restriction around prohibited area P-40. During Presidential visits, this restriction is expanded beyond the charted limits. The term “TFR” is used generically to describe various types of restric- tions within the national airspace sys- disaster/hazard relief activities and is lots should also be aware that unlike tem. However, it should be noted being operated under the direction of most other TFRs, 91.137a(2) restric- there are actually eight types of TFRs the official in charge of on-scene tions might not be circular in shape. used throughout the NAS. Under- emergency response activities. Instead, their boundaries conform to standing the reasons for each is help- Pilots may have noted that a num- the requirements of the agency coor- ful in alerting pilots to the possibility of ber of existing TFRs were issued dinating relief activities. restrictions along their intended route under 91.137a(1) for reasons of na- Although most pilots may not fly in of flight. What follows is a brief outline tional security. These TFRs were put an area designated in a section of each restriction: in place following the terrorist attacks 91.137a(2) TFR, certain exceptions A flight restriction issued under of September 11, 2001, to protect are outlined. Details concerning this the authority of 14 CFR Section various Department of Defense (DoD) and other regulations may be found 91.137, TFR in the Vicinity of Disas- installations (such as military sites), online at http://www.faa.gov. ter/Hazard Areas, is intended to pro- chemical storage facilities, or other 3. Section 91.137a(3): TFRs is- tect persons or property, on the high-profile areas that could be tar- sued under this paragraph are in- ground or in the air, from a specific geted in future terrorist attacks. Some tended to prevent the unsafe conges- hazard. The restriction is issued to of the original DoD restrictions have tion of sightseeing aircraft above prevent low-flying aircraft from in- since been cancelled, and the remain- disaster/hazard incidents of limited creasing that hazard, regardless of its ing TFRs are under review by the DoD duration, such as aircraft accident nature. There are three situations for and the FAA. The dimensions of these sites, that may generate a high degree which a TFR may be issued under restrictions vary, but most are between of public interest. section 91.137, and they are: three and five nautical miles (NM) in ra- The restrictions in a section 1. Section 91.137a(1): TFRs are dius and extend upward to 3,000 or 91.137a(3) TFR are similar to those for issued under this paragraph when 5,000 feet above ground level (AGL). 91.137a(2), except that aircraft carry- necessary to protect persons and 2. Section 91.137a(2): TFRs is- ing incident or event personnel may property on the ground or in the air sued under this paragraph are in- also operate in the area. For more de- from a hazard associated with an inci- tended to provide a safe environment tails on use of these TFRs, including dent on the surface. Examples in- for the operation of disaster relief air- the additional information that must be clude: toxic gas leaks or spills, vol- craft. Quite simply, these restrictions included when filing a flight plan canic eruptions, nuclear accidents, are meant to keep non-participating through such areas, pilots should fa- etc. traffic away from aircraft engaged in miliarize themselves with 14 CFR Sec- A Section 91.137a(1) TFR is the firefighting activities, avalanche con- tion 91.137. most restrictive of any issued under trol, search and rescue activities, etc. 4. 14 CFR Section 91.138 Tem- section 91.137. It prohibits all aircraft Due to the nature of these restrictions, porary Flight Restrictions in National from operating in the designated area, they may be in place for only a few Disaster Areas in the State of Hawaii. unless it is participating in hours or as long as several days. Pi- Obviously restrictions issued under
2 FAA Aviation News this part do not have far reaching im- ities take place). The NOTAMs plications for most general aviation pi- which create these TFRs usu- lots. However, if you find yourself on ally activate existing special use the Hawaiian Islands with plans to do airspace (restricted and/or some flying, be on the look out for No- warning areas), or airspace ad- tices to Airmen (NOTAMs) carrying jacent to these areas. Since these restrictions, particularly when a September 11, 2001, space national disaster area declaration has shuttle launches have been ac- been issued. companied by additional re- 5. 14 CFR Section 91.141 Flight strictions issued under 14 CFR Restrictions in the Proximity of the Section 99.7 Presidential and Other Parties. TFRs 7. 14 CFR Section issued under this part are used to pro- 91.145 Management of Aircraft tect the President, Vice President, or Operations in the Vicinity of other public figures while traveling Aerial Demonstrations and throughout the United States. Prior to Major Sporting Events. When September 11, 2001, such restrictions deemed necessary by the FAA, were very localized and rarely im- section 91.145 provides for the (Graphic courtesy of AOPA) pacted general aviation pilots. How- issuance of a TFR during cer- The TFR surrounding Crawford, Texas. In effect ever, ongoing security concerns have tain events, including aerial during Presidential visits, this restriction can have led to restrictions much greater in size, demonstrations (such as those a 30 NM radius. forcing pilots to increase their aware- involving the Blue Angels, Thun- ness of Presidential movements. In derbirds, Golden Knights, etc.), many cases, Presidential TFRs with a the Olympics™, World Cup Soccer™, merous TFRs have been established 30 NM radius or greater have been the Super Bowl™, etc. While section under the authority of this section. For established. 91.145 restrictions are used in many example, TFRs have been used It is also important to note that pi- of these instances, pilots should know around cities (such as Chicago) over lots flying in certain parts of the coun- that certain high profile sporting military facilities (such as the Navy’s try face unique restrictions associated events (particularly those like the base in St. Marys, Georgia), and to with Section 91.141 TFRs. If you fly Super Bowl™ that create inviting ter- protect space shuttle launch facilities near Crawford, Texas, or Kenneb- rorist targets), may receive larger re- in Florida. In other cases, section unkport, Maine, you may expect large strictions issued under section 99.7, 99.7 TFRs have been issued in re- flight restrictions during Presidential Special Security Instructions, if deter- sponse to threat assessments affect- visits. Although smaller prohibited mined necessary by appropriate Fed- ing certain major sporting events, areas (P-49 and P-67) are always in eral security and law enforcement offi- such as the World Series™; and over place at those locations, visits by the cials. Also, if the President is in significant national landmarks, such as President may lead to the issuance of attendance, the event may be covered the St. Louis Arch, the Statue of Lib- section 91.141 TFRs that impose ad- by additional restrictions issued under erty, and Mount Rushmore. ditional restrictions. In Maryland, pi- section 91.141. Pilots must also be aware of a lots must be aware of the airspace re- Generally, restrictions issued standing notice, issued under section strictions near Thurmont, Maryland. under section 91.145 encompass the 99.7, advising them to avoid the air- The Camp David Presidential retreat, minimum airspace needed for the space above, or in proximity to, sites surrounded by Prohibited Area P-40, management of aircraft operations such as nuclear power plants, power is also subject to a larger (usually 10 near the event. For aerial demonstra- plants, dams, refineries, industrial NM in radius) section 91.141 restric- tions, the TFR will normally be limited complexes, military installations, and tion during Presidential visits. Section to a five NM radius up to an altitude of other similar facilities. 91.141 TFRs typically extend from the 17,000 feet mean sea level (or 13,000 In addition, section 99.7 is the surface up to, but not including, flight feet AGL for parachute demonstra- basis for restrictions around certain level (FL) 180. tions). For sporting events, the TFR sporting facilities (often referred to as 6. 14 CFR Section 91.143 Flight will normally be limited to a three NM the “Sports NOTAM”). Except for lim- Limitations in the Proximity of Space radius and 2,500 feet AGL. ited cases specified in the NOTAM, all Flight Operations. These TFRs are 8. 14 CFR Section 99.7 Special aircraft and parachute operations are used to provide a safe environment for Security Instructions. This section al- prohibited at and below 3,000 feet space launch operations. As a result, lows the FAA to issue specific restric- AGL within a three NM radius of any section 91.143 restrictions are typi- tions in the interest of national security. stadium having a seating capacity of cally found in Florida, New Mexico, Prior to September 11, 2001, this sec- 30,000 or more people in which a and California (where most such activ- tion was rarely used. Since then, nu- Major League Baseball™, National
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2003 3 Football League™, NCAA™ division- erations are prohibited within the FRZ, coastal borders of the contiguous one football, or major motor speed- unless specifically authorized by the United States, Alaska, Guam, and way event is taking place. These re- FAA in consultation with the Trans- Hawaii. More recently, Air Defense strictions are in effect one hour before portation Security Administration. Identification Zones were used “in- the scheduled time of the event until These restrictions are also in place for land” to protect New York City and one hour after the end of the event. pilots who wish to transit FRZ air- Washington, DC. Although the New All pilots should be aware that careful space. In addition to the impacts York ADIZ has since been cancelled, advance planning might be required to cited above, the FRZ also eliminated the Washington, DC ADIZ remains in comply with these restrictions. the popular north-south VFR flyway effect. Restrictions issued under section between Reagan National and Wash- While both types of identification 99.7 may vary dramatically in size, and ington Dulles International Airports. It zones carry with them unique restric- there is no standard configuration. also narrowed the width of the south- tions and operational requirements, our For space shuttle launch operations, east-northwest VFR flyway between focus will be the Washington, DC ADIZ. pilots may expect restrictions with at Baltimore/Washington and Reagan The differences between this airspace least a 30 NM radius. Shuttle NO- National Airports. For ease of identifi- and the “traditional” ADIZ will be high- TAMs will also outline different opera- cation, this airspace is depicted on lighted as appropriate. For detailed in- tional restrictions and requirements, both sectional and terminal area formation on the latter, pilots may re- depending on the distance from the charts. One word of caution…unlike view the Aeronautical Information launch facility. Once shuttle flights re- the charted Class B airspace, FRZ re- Manual (AIM), Chapter 5, Section 6. sume, pilots are urged to review such strictions extend up to, but not includ- notices carefully when flying near cen- ing, FL180. The exact description of The Washington, DC ADIZ tral Florida. the FRZ may be found in FDC NOTAM 3/2126 Established by NOTAM in Febru- Flight Restrictions in the ary 2003, the Washington, DC ADIZ Washington, DC Area Special Federal Aviation extends from the surface up to, but Regulation 94 (SFAR 94) not including, FL180. The outer As a result of the September 11 boundary on the northern, eastern, terrorist attacks, pilots in the greater Due to their close proximity to and western sides of the ADIZ con- Washington, DC area have faced a Washington, DC, part 91 operations forms to the outer boundary of the host of new operating restrictions. were prohibited at College Park Air- Washington, DC tri-area Class B air- Due to the number of important as- port (CGS), Potomac Airfield (VKX), space. An arc 30 NM in radius, cen- sets in the National Capital region, and Washington Executive/Hyde Field tered at the DCA VOR/DME, defines flight restrictions in the DC area have (W32), for a lengthy period following most of the southern boundary. changed over time in response to po- the September 11, 2001 attacks. In While the exact boundary descrip- tential threats. There are currently order to restore operations at the three tion for the Washington, DC ADIZ may three restrictions in place, the Wash- Maryland airports, the FAA issued be found in FDC NOTAM 3/2126, this ington, DC Metropolitan Area Flight SFAR 94, Enhanced Security Proce- airspace is not charted. For this rea- Restricted Zone (FRZ), Special Federal dures for Operations at Certain Air- son, pilots are advised to mark this Aviation Regulation 94 (SFAR 94), and ports in the Washington, DC Metropol- airspace on their sectional, terminal, the Washington, DC Metropolitan Air itan Area Special Flight Rules Area. and en route charts as needed. Defense Identification Zone (DC.ADIZ). Established on February 13, 2002, SFAR 94 permitted limited operations ADIZ Requirements Washington, DC to resume for pilots based at those Metropolitan Area Flight airports, subject to certain airport se- The purpose of the Washington, Restricted Zone (FRZ) curity measures, pilot background DC ADIZ is to establish airspace in checks, and specified ATC arrival and which the ready identification, location, Established for the purpose of na- departure procedures. and control of aircraft is required for tional security, the most limiting of national security. Located over land, these restrictions has been the FRZ. The Air Defense the Washington, DC ADIZ differs from The Flight Restricted Zone evolved Identification Zone the traditional coastal ADIZ surround- from previous restrictions in place ing the contiguous United States, since December 2001. The FRZ con- Traditionally, the Air Defense Iden- Alaska, Guam, and Hawaii (whose ge- sists of that airspace from the surface tification Zone, or ADIZ, has existed to ographical boundaries are described up to, but not including, FL 180, within facilitate the early identification of all in detail under 14 CFR Part 99). In ad- approximately 15 NM of the Washing- aircraft in the vicinity of U.S. and inter- dition, the requirements and proce- ton VOR/DME. All part 91, 101, 103, national airspace boundaries. As dures that apply to the DC ADIZ are 105, 125, 135, 133, and 137 flight op- such, these ADIZs existed along the unique to that airspace and differ from
4 FAA Aviation News The outer limits of the Washington, DC ADIZ are shown above in red. Pilot are advised this airspace is not charted. The Flight Restriction Zone, shown in black is closed to most air traffic. Unlike the ADIZ, the FRZ is charted for ease of identification. traditional ADIZ procedures. These re- would under any other circumstance. Flight Service System. DUATS may quirements compare as follows on • Also, the additional burden not be used for filing flight plans within Table 1, on page 7. placed on air traffic controllers as a re- the Washington, DC ADIZ. Pilots who intend to operate in the sult of the ADIZ means that many VFR Washington, DC ADIZ must be aware services are more difficult to obtain, Decoding Temporary Flight of the following additional items: and getting a “pop-up” clearance is Restrictions • First, clearance into the ADIZ often difficult (if not impossible). To does not constitute clearance into the avoid difficulties, file your flight plan TFRs are issued as Flight Data Class B airspace. If your route of flight well in advance of your departure. Center (FDC) NOTAMs, and may be penetrates Class B airspace, be sure • Finally, when filing your flight retrieved via DUATS (http:// to get a clearance first, just as you plan, make certain to do so using the www.duats.com) or by contacting
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2003 5 AND BELOW 8000 FT MSL) provides the location and dimensions of the TFR. This restriction has a radius of 10 NM, and extends from the surface up to, and including, 8,000 feet mean sea level. The TFR’s center point is also de- fined in this portion of the notice. The first set of numbers denotes the de- grees of latitude (39 degrees, 34 min- utes, 0 seconds north latitude). The second set provides the degrees of longitude (122 degrees, 43 minutes, 0 seconds west longitude). To help sim- plify things, the center point is also given relative to a navigational facility. This TFR is centered on a point 28 NM west-northwest (on the 288-degree radial) of the Maxwell (MXW) VORTAC.
(Graphic courtesy of AOPA) Pilots should be aware that Because it is considered a potential terrorist target, Disneyland is latitude/longitude center points and protected by a security TFR issued under section 99.7. the center points defined relative to a navigational facility do not always pre- your local Flight Service Station. Typi- 1. The first portion of the notice cisely agree. cally, the only TFRs that appear in the (!FDC 3/8925) indicates this is a FDC 7. The next section provides the NOTAM publication (also known as NOTAM. The number “3” indicates rationale for the restriction. In this the Class II NOTAMS) are those issued this notice was issued in 2003. The case, the TFR was issued to protect for sporting, entertainment, or other number “8925” is a sequential number firefighting operations. events when the time and location are assigned to the notice. 8. The eighth part of the notice known well in advance. While TFR 2. The next portion of the NOTAM provides contact information for the content may vary greatly, they follow a (ZOA CA) informs pilots this TFR lies entity in charge of the on-scene emer- consistent format. A better under- within airspace assigned to the Oak- gency response activities. In this standing of this format helps in inter- land Air Route Traffic Control Center case, the U.S. Forestry Service is the preting flight restrictions. The follow- (ZOA) and the restriction is found in coordinating agency. ing is an example of a typical TFR the State of California (CA). 9. Finally, the notice provides con- NOTAM: 3. The third portion of the notice tact information (OAKLAND /OAK/ (FLIGHT RESTRICTIONS WILLOWS, AFSS, 510-273-6111) that may be !FDC 3/8925 ZOA CA. FLIGHT RESTRIC- CA) gives the purpose of this NOTAM. helpful to pilots. In some cases, it TIONS WILLOWS, CA. EFFECTIVE IMME- In this case, a TFR is being created in may be possible to operate in TFR air- DIATELY UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. the proximity of Willows, California. space with prior permission/coordina- 4. Next, the effective period of the tion from the controlling agency. While PURSUANT TO 14 CFR SECTION notice is given. This particular TFR this NOTAM includes a telephone 91.137A(2) TEMPORARY FLIGHT went into effect immediately upon is- number, one is not always given. RESTRICTIONS ARE IN EFFECT WITHIN A suance, and will remain in effect until it 10 NAUTICAL MILE RADIUS OF is cancelled. Most TFRs will have Pitfalls and Helpful 393400N/1224330W, THE specific expiration dates and times. Strategies MAXWELL/MXW/VORTAC 288 DEGREE 5. The fifth section gives the au- RADIAL AT 28 NAUTICAL MILES, AT AND thority citation for the notice. In this Even with the many restrictions BELOW 8000 FT MSL TO PROVIDE A SAFE case, the TFR is issued under section now in place throughout the NAS, it is ENVIRONMENT FOR FIRE FIGHTING ACFT 91.137a(2). unlikely that most pilots will find them- OPERATIONS (THE GRINDSTONE AIR 6. The sixth portion of the notice selves in the midst of a TFR. This has ATTACK FIRE). THE U.S.F.S, PHONE 580- (TEMPORARY FLIGHT RESTRIC- led to a level of complacency, con- 226-2801/FREQ 122.425, IS IN CHARGE TIONS ARE IN EFFECT WITHIN A 10 tributing to a rise in the number of vio- OF ON SCENE EMERGENCY RESPONSE NAUTICAL MILE RADIUS OF lations now being investigated. In ad- ACTIVITIES. OAKLAND/OAK/AFSS, 510- 393400N/1224300W, THE MAXWELL dition, certain systemic difficulties and 273-6111, IS THE FAA COORDINATION /MXW/ VORTAC 288 DEGREE RA- training issues have made it challeng- FACILITY DIAL AT 28 NAUTICAL MILES, AT ing for even the most conscientious of
6 FAA Aviation News pilots to stay out of trouble. With Operational Washington, DC ADIZ Traditional ADIZ that in mind, here Requirements are some strate- gies that can help Flight Plan Required. IFR or VFR Required. IFR or DVFR. The flight you avoid TFR air- plan must also be filed before depar- space. ture, except for operations associated First, know with the Alaskan ADIZ when the air- your area. Many port of departure has no facility for fil- security TFRs ing a flight plan. have been in place since September Mode C Transponder On and squawking assigned code Required unless otherwise authorized 11, 2001, and have changed little Two-Way Radio Required prior to, and while operat- Required for most operations (if at all). If you self Communications ing within the ADIZ. The only excep- brief via DUATS, tion is for VFR aircraft operating with- remember that in the airport traffic area. In these some NOTAMs cases, the pilot is to monitor CTAF are cancelled and (no ATC communications are reissued (such as required). ATC communications and the restriction approval is required prior to leaving around Thurmont, the airport vicinity MD). When a no- tice is reissued, it Position Reporting Not necessary. The pilot will be in Required. For DVFR flights, the esti- is given a new radar and communications contact mated time of ADIZ penetration must number, so don’t with ATC at all times within the ADIZ be filed with the aeronautical facility at rely strictly on a least 15 minutes prior to entry. In NOTAM number if Alaska, pilots need only report prior you have an ongo- to entry. ing restriction in your flight area. In Airspeed No additional considerations When penetrating the Alaska, Guam, addition, when a Considerations or Hawaii ADIZ, pilots who maintain a NOTAM is reis- true airspeed of less than 180 knots sued, the restric- are exempt from ADIZ requirements tions may or may not differ from Aircraft Markings The size of aircraft registry marks 12-inch registry marks are required those previously in need not be changed place. Also, if you fly close to a na- tional landmark, Table 1: Comparison of Washington, DC and Traditional ADIZ Requirements power plant, sporting facility, or mili- lation centers may be enveloped by a the importance of avoiding these tary base, be particularly vigilant for re- TFR. TFRs, every pilot should include a strictions that may surround those Next, even if you self brief using drafting compass among the items in areas. DUATS, consider giving your local their flight bag. This will help to accu- Second, contact your nearest Flight Service Station a call. A DUATS rately depict restrictions, and will Flight Service Station and/or receive a briefing may include many pages filled hopefully keep you out of trouble. DUATS briefing prior to EVERY flight. with NOTAMs, most of which are likely Also, when plotting a TFR, remember It is very easy to become complacent, not applicable to your flight. As a re- that even a restriction not directly particularly when flying in familiar air- sult, an important notice may be easily along your intended route of flight may space or over short distances. Al- overlooked. A call to Flight Service become an issue. A weather diver- though the FAA tries to provide ad- can help keep you out of trouble. Just sion, improper wind correction, or en vance notice when possible, actual be certain to ask for flight restrictions route change of destination could eas- disaster, hazard, or security situations along your route of flight. ily place you in an area you intended may result in TFRs being issued, or If there are restrictions along (or to avoid. changed, on very short notice. Also, adjacent to) your route of flight, have a When plotting TFRs on a chart, because some restrictions are so sectional chart handy and plot it for there are certain procedures that must large, even rural areas far from popu- reference before you depart. Given be considered. Each time the com-
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2003 7 maintains a website useful in tracking firefighting and other restrictions throughout the NAS. It may be ac- cessed at http://airspace.blm.gov/ mapping/blm/index.cfm. Other non- governmental organizations have web-based resources to aid in flight planning. The Aircraft Owners and Pi- lots Association (AOPA) website con- tains links to many notices and graph- ical TFRs. It may be accessed at http://www.aopa.org. The Air Safety Foundation also has an excellent on- line program titled Know Before You Go that may be accessed at http://www.aopa.org/asf/know_be- fore. The Experimental Aircraft Asso- ciation (EAA) has teamed up with AeroPlanner at http://www.aeroplan- ner.com to provide graphical TFRs and other flight planning tools. Tips such as these will help you stay clear of TFR airspace. However,
(Graphic courtesy of AOPA) to be fully prepared in case of an in- This security TFR was issued for the 2003 Super Bowl™. advertent TFR intrusion, pilots are en- couraged to become thoroughly famil- iar with the interception procedures pass is set to the appropriate radius, it planning a flight you see that your and signals contained in Chapter 5, is important to remember the scales course takes you near a firefighting Section 6, in the Aeronautical Infor- used on each sectional chart are not TFR, remember that fires can spread mation Manual (available on-line at precise. Also, the sectional is a rapidly. Be aware of the wind direc- http://www.faa.gov/ATpubs). graphical depiction of the surface en- tion, and know that the TFR can mi- These resources, combined with vironment, and because cartogra- grate (through the cancellation and is- sound planning and execution, will phers must take certain liberties in suance of new NOTAMs), enveloping help ensure a safe, violation-free flight. order to produce legible charts, ob- your route of flight. Even if you are far 3 jects may not be precisely where they from the smoke, aircraft engaged in Michael W. Brown is an Aviation appear on the chart. Considering firefighting activities may be operating Safety Analyst in Flight Standards’ these factors, if your route of flight at low levels flying to and from sources General Aviation and Commercial brings you very close to a plotted TFR, of water, refueling bases, etc. If Division. it is possible that you may actually find there’s a chance such a TFR could im- yourself in restricted airspace, even pact your flight, be certain to contact Although based upon the with highly accurate global positioning Flight Service while en route for fre- latest Air Traffic data at the system (GPS) equipment. In short, quent updates. give restricted airspace a generous Also, remember that many TFRs time of publication, the berth. are in place for a specified period of information in this article If it has been a while since you time, and that time is provided (unless is subject to change and plotted a point on a chart using lati- otherwise specified) within the NOTAM clarification. Pilots are tude/longitude coordinates, it would using a Coordinated Universal Time be wise to practice using an old chart. (UTC or “zulu” time) format. If you cautioned to check for the Even if you’re off by only a few min- plan to fly near such a TFR, make cer- latest material before fly- utes or seconds, this could lead to a tain the time conversion is done prop- ing. You can find the most plot that is several miles off the mark. erly to avoid a violation. current FAA Internet-based Another point worth noting is that Finally, there are web resources TFR graphics and NOTAM not all TFRs are the same size and available to help you in locating TFRs. shape. For example, firefighting TFRs Many can be found by using the FAA’s information at may have an irregular shape with a website at http://www.faa.gov. The
8 FAA Aviation News National Security And Interception Procedures
by H. Dean Chamberlain
This is an updated reprint from the January/February 2002 issue of FAA Aviation News.
he above headline is not are those for peacetime identification the latest information. In case of new. It is the title of Section of unknown aircraft entering the U.S. any doubt, contact a Flight Service T 6, Chapter 5, Air Traffic Pro- through an Air Defense Identification Station office at 1-800-WXBRIEF for cedures, in the Aeronautical Zone (ADIZ), the procedure for inter- the latest information. Information Manual (AIM). Para- cepting any aircraft is very similar. In Because of the seriousness of the graph two of Section 6, 5-6-2, Inter- the case of several well-publicized air current national security situation, the ception Procedures, outlines the carrier intercepts, especially the airliner following information is a verbatim standard, peacetime, intercept pro- flying into Chicago’s O’Hare airport copy of the intercept procedures in cedures that pilots can expect if after a passenger tried to get into the the AIM. We hope this information they are intercepted. In light of the cockpit, the intercepting fighters es- gives each pilot a better understand- post-September 11, 2001, hijack- corted the American Airlines jet to the ing of what to expect if intercepted by ings and the well-publicized inter- airport. armed fighters. The time to wonder ception of aircraft after that date, To put this all into perspective and what two F-16 fighters are going to do both air carrier and general aviation since flight restrictions are becoming a next is not while they are joining on types, all pilots should review the fact of life, FAA Aviation News is your wingtips. basic intercept procedures in the reprinting excerpts from the AIM as a AIM and the latest intercept proce- reminder of the recommended proce- 5-6-2 dures published in the current No- dures for you to use in case you are Interception Procedures tices to Airmen (NOTAMS). intercepted. Although most interceptions in the Because of the dynamic nature a. General. past were of aircraft penetrating the of NOTAMS and TFRs, pilots need 1. Identification intercepts during U.S., that is not necessarily true today. to review the current NOTAMS be- peacetime operations are vastly differ- Although the AIM intercept procedures fore every flight to ensure they have ent than those conducted under in-
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2003 9 creased states of readiness. Unless tionship will resemble a line abreast craft may be considered hazardous to otherwise directed by the control formation. At night or in IMC, a com- passengers and crews of nonfighter agency, intercepted aircraft will be fortable radar trail tactic will be used. aircraft. When interceptor aircrews identified by type only. When specific Safe vertical separation between inter- know or believe that an unsafe condi- information is required (i.e. markings, ceptor aircraft and unknown aircraft tion exists, the identification phase will serial numbers, etc.) the interceptor will be maintained at all times. be terminated. As previously stated, aircrew will respond only if the request during darkness or IMC identification can be conducted in a safe manner. 2. Phase Two- of unknown aircraft will be by type During hours of darkness or Instru- Identification Phase. only. Positive vertical separation will ment Meteorological Conditions (IMC), The intercepted aircraft should ex- be maintained by interceptor aircraft identification of unknown aircraft will pect to visually acquire the lead inter- throughout this phase. be by type only. The interception pat- ceptor and possibly the wingman dur- tern described below is the typical ing this phase in visual meteorological 3. Phase Three- peacetime method used by air inter- conditions (VMC). The wingman will Post Intercept Phase. ceptor aircrews. In all situations, the assume a surveillance position while Upon identification phase comple- interceptor aircrew will use caution to the flight leader approaches the un- tion, the flight leader will turn away avoid startling the intercepted aircrew known aircraft. Intercepted aircraft from the intercepted aircraft. The and/or passengers. personnel may observe the use of dif- wingman will remain well clear and ac- ferent drag devices to allow for speed complish a rejoin with the leader. b. Intercept phases and position stabilization during this (See FIG 5-6-1). phase. The flight leader will then initi- c. Communications ate a gentle closure toward the inter- 1. Phase One- Approach Phase. cepted aircraft, stopping at a distance Communication interface between During peacetime, intercepted air- no closer than absolutely necessary to interceptor aircrews and the ground craft will be approached from the obtain the information needed. The controlling agency is essential to en- stern. Generally two interceptor air- interceptor aircraft will use every pos- sure successful intercept completion. craft will be employed to accomplish sible precaution to avoid startling inter- Flight safety is paramount. An aircraft the identification. The flight leader and cepted aircrew or passengers. Addi- which is intercepted by another air- wingman will coordinate their individ- tionally, the interceptor aircrews will craft shall immediately: ual positions in conjunction with the constantly keep in mind that maneu- ground controlling agency. Their rela- vers considered normal to a fighter air- 1. Follow the instructions given by
10 FAA Aviation News Figure 5-6-1
the intercepting aircraft, interpret- request immediate clarification ever, it is each organization’s re- ing and responding to the visual while continuing to comply with sponsibility to apprise ATC of their signals. the instructions given by the inter- intent to operate under an author- 2. Notify, if possible, the appropri- cepting aircraft. ized exemption before initiating ate air traffic services unit. actual operations. 3. Attempt to establish radio com- 5-6-3 3. Additionally, some departments munication with the intercepting Law Enforcement and agencies that perform special aircraft or with the appropriate in- Operations by Civil and missions have been assigned tercept control unit, by making a Military Organizations coded identifiers to permit them to general call on the emergency fre- apprise ATC of ongoing mission quency 243.0 MHz and repeating a. Special law enforcement activities and solicit special air this call on the emergency fre- operations. traffic assistance. quency 121.5 MHz, if practicable, giving the identity and position of 1. Special law enforcement opera- 5-6-4. Interception Signals the aircraft and the nature of the tions include in-flight identification, [Table 5-6-1 and Table 5-6-2, flight. surveillance, interdiction, and pur- next page] 4. If equipped with SSR transpon- suit activities performed in accor- der, select MODE 3/A Code 7700, dance with official civil and/or mili- This information is available in unless otherwise instructed by the tary mission responsibilities. both the printed AIM and the FAA’s In- appropriate air traffic services unit. 2. To facilitate accomplishment of ternet web site at
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2003 11 INTERCEPTING SIGNALS Signals initiated by intercepting aircraft and responses by intercepted aircraft (as set forth in ICAO Annex 2-Appendix A, 2.1)
Series INTERCEPTING Aircraft Signals Meaning INTERCEPTED Aircraft Responds Meaning
1 DAY-Rocking wings from a position slightly above and You have been AEROPLANES: Understood, ahead of, and normally to the left of, the intercepted air- intercepted. DAY-Rocking wings and following. will comply. craft and, after acknowledgement, a slow level turn, nor- Follow me. mally to the left, on to the desired heading. NIGHT-Same and, in addition, flashing navigational lights NIGHT-Same and, in addition, flashing navigational at irregular intervals. lights at irregular intervals. NOTE 1-Meteorological conditions or terrain may require the intercepting aircraft to take up a position slightly above and ahead of, and to the right of, the intercepted aircraft and to make the subsequent turn to the right. NOTE 2-If the intercepted aircraft is not able to keep pace with the intercepting aircraft, the latter is expected to fly HELICOPTERS: DAY or NIGHT-Rocking aircraft, flashing a series of race-track patterns and to rock its wings each navigational lights at irregular intervals and following. time it passes the intercepted aircraft. 2 DAY or NIGHT-An abrupt break-away maneuver from the You may AEROPLANES: Understood, intercepted aircraft consisting of a climbing turn of 90 proceed. DAY or NIGHT-Rocking wings. will comply. degrees or more without crossing the line of flight of the intercepted aircraft. HELICOPTERS: DAY or NIGHT-Rocking aircraft. 3 DAY-Circling aerodrome, lowering landing gear and over- Land at this AEROPLANES: Understood, flying runway in direction of landing or, if the intercepted aerodrome DAY-Lowering landing gear, following the intercepting will comply. aircraft is a helicopter, overflying the helicopter landing aircraft and, if after overflying the runway landing is area. considered safe, proceeding to land. NIGHT-Same and, in addition, showing steady landing NIGHT-Same and, in addition, showing steady landing lights. lights (if carried). HELICOPTERS: DAY or NIGHT-Following the intercepting aircraft and proceeding to land, showing a steady landing light (if carried). Table 5-6-1 Table INTERCEPTING SIGNALS Signals initiated by intercepted aircraft and responses by intercepting aircraft (as set forth in ICAO Annex 2-Appendix A, 2.2)
Series INTERCEPTED Aircraft Signals Meaning INTERCEPTING Aircraft Responds Meaning
4 DAY or NIGHT-Raising landing gear (if fitted) and flashing Aerodrome DAY or NIGHT-If it is desired that the intercepted aircraft Understood, landing lights while passing over runway in use or heli- you have follow the intercepting aircraft to an alternate aero- follow me. copter landing area at a height exceeding 300m (1,000 designated is drome, the intercepting aircraft raises its landing gear ft) but not exceeding 600m (2,000 ft) (in the case of a inadequate. (if fitted) and uses the Series 1 signals prescribed for helicopter, at a height exceeding 50m (170 ft) but not intercepting aircraft. exceeding 100m (330 ft) above the aerodrome level, and continuing to circle runway in use or helicopter landing If it is decided to release the intercepted aircraft, the Understood, area. If unable to flash landing lights, flash any other intercepting aircraft uses the Series 2 signals prescribed you may lights available. for intercepting aircraft. proceed. 5 DAY or NIGHT-Regular switching on and off of all avail- Cannot com- DAY or NIGHT-Use Series 2 signals prescribed for inter- Understood. able lights but in such a manner as to be distinct from ply. cepting aircraft. flashing lights. 6 DAY or NIGHT-Irregular flashing of all available lights In distress. DAY or NIGHT-Use Series 2 signals prescribed for inter- Understood cepting aircraft. Table 5-6-2 Table
12 FAA Aviation News