Understanding TFRs. ebook Series Version 1.3. Copyright 2012 Find-it Fast Books

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2 Understanding TFRs ebook Series Version 1.3 Copyright 2012 Find-it Fast Books No part of this ebook, or in its entirety, may be reproduced or retransmitted by any electronic or mechanical means including information storage and retrieval systems for the purpose of sharing with others without the express written consent of the author. by Jerry Miller 406 Henry Drive Montoursville, PA The writer does the most who gives his reader the most knowledge, and takes from him the least time. -Sydney Smith ( )

3 Table of Contents FDC NOTAM Overview... 1 TFRs, General Discussion Format of a TFR Identification as an FDC NOTAM... 8 ARTCC Airspace Affected... 9 Reason for, Purpose of Effective Period Authority Citation Location and Dimensions Rationale Contact Data, Entity in Charge Contact Information for Pilots Types of TFRs Under 14 CFR Section Section a(1) Section a(2) Section a(3) Section Section Presidential TFRs... 22,23 Section Section Section ,27 National Security Areas Pointer NOTAMs DCA ADIZ, FRZ - Brief Discussion Special Use Airspace... 31,32 Military Training Routes Protecting Yourself... 34,35 Internet Information Sources TFR Contractions Decoder ARTCC (Center) Contractions Decoder State Contractions Decoder i

4 FDC NOTAM Overview An FDC NOTAM pertains to flight information that is regulatory in nature that includes the following: Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs), such as: 1. Closed or restricted airspace due to security concerns 2. Disaster areas 3. Special events, generating a high degree of interest 4. Hijackings 5. Flight restrictions in the proximity of the President and Other Parties (associated with the President) Certain airport condition changes Snow conditions affecting ILS glide slope operation Air Defense emergencies Substitute flight rules Special data U.S. Government charting corrections Laser light activity FDC NOTAMs are numbered consecutively beginning with 0001, each year. The year of issuance and the serial number are separated by a slant. EXAMPLE: FDC 12/0342 Translated: The 342nd FDC NOTAM issued in year

5 TFRs, General Discussion TFRs can be considered to be no-fly zones for most aircraft. They temporarily prohibit flight over certain areas and are disseminated by FDC NOTAM. Certain aircraft may be authorized entry into a TFR: Aircraft participating in relief operations Aircraft carrying law enforcement personnel Aircraft carrying accredited news officials Aircraft operating to or from airports located within the TFR - With prior authorization! Aircraft operating under an IFR flight plan If you are not flying an aircraft in the above categories, stay clear of all TFRs! Even though TFRs have been around for quite some time restricting airspace surrounding disaster areas and special events, for example, the terrorist attack on September 11, 2001 has led to many TFRs being issued for national security reasons. During our current security situation, TFRs are constantly changing and new TFRs are frequently being created. It is imperative that pilots check all NOTAMs during flight planning. NOTAM checks must include not only FDC NOTAMs, but Pointer NOTAMs, as well, which are issued as Distant NOTAMs (NOTAM D s). These Pointer NOTAMs, explained on page 29, are designed to point the pilot toward important TFR information pertinent to a planned flight. Pointer NOTAMs will help the pilot locate those TFRs that will have an impact his flight - especially at departure and destination airports. All TFRs currently in effect can be found at 2

6 TFRs, General Discussion (con t) A TFR restricts or prohibits air traffic operations due to a real or perceived hazard or condition. A TFR temporarily restricts or prohibits flight over a specified area for: Presidential or Vice Presidential no-fly zones National security purposes Sports stadiums or special events Disaster relief areas, such as floods, earthquakes, and Forest fire-fighting operations Aircraft accident sites Toxic gas leaks or spills Nuclear accidents or incidents Rescue operations Department of Defense (DOD) military operations volcanoes The purpose in designating an area as a TFR is to: Protect persons and property on the surface. Provide a safe environment for the operation of disaster relief aircraft. Prevent unsafe congestion of sightseeing aircraft above an event of high public interest. A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR): Is not depicted on aeronautical charts Is usually short term in duration Can appear, disappear, or change daily Is disseminated as an FDC NOTAM, explaining: Where the TFR is located How big it is, usually in terms of radius How high it extends in altitude How long it is expected to remain in effect 3

7 TFRs, General Discussion (con t) TFR information is available from: 1. Flight Service Stations when receiving weather briefings WX BRIEF ( ) Website: Ask specifically for TFRs! An AFSS provides up to the minute TFR status. An AFSS gives updated TFR information while enroute. 2. DUAT (Direct User Access Terminal Service). Website: Provides up to the minute TFR status. Offers graphic representations of TFRs. 3. AOPA Online - Unofficial web site information that may not provide up to the minute TFR status, but a great resource. Offers graphic representations of TFRs, and much more. Website: 4. Aeroplanner.com and other unofficial web sites that may not be timely in providing up to the minute TFR status. Offers graphic representations of TFRs, and much more. Membership fee required offers web-based flight planning. Website: 5. FAA NOTAM web site. The URL is Inadvertently entering a TFR may result in: Law enforcement officials greeting you upon your landing. Suspension of your pilot certificate. Interception by military aircraft. If intercepted by military aircraft, follow the procedures listed in the Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM), Section 6, Paragraph 5-6-2, Figures &

8 TFRs, General Discussion (con t) Even though you may be completely familiar with all TFR information pertinent to your route of flight, an incursion may still result from: Issuance or change of a TFR after receiving a weather briefing. Your being misled by air traffic controllers: Even though ATC helps you to avoid TFRs as much as possible, VFR vectors followed by radar service termination may mislead you into continued flight on the last assigned vector into a TFR. Therefore, always maintain positional awareness while flying in the vicinity of a TFR. Do not blindly rely on ATC to keep you out of TFRs. Refer to your charts throughout your flight - Maintain positional awareness! Other reasons for inadvertent entry into TFRs include: Pilots who know about a TFR but fly too close to the outer boundary. They believe they are clear of the TFR when, in fact, they fly a mile or two inside the TFR airspace. It is best to give TFR airspace a wide berth when flying in the vicinity to ensure that you remain clear. Pilots who never check for TFRs before flying! Typically, these pilots are those who decide to make a flight in their familiar and well known local flying area. The thought never occurs to them that a TFR could be in effect because they are just making a short hop. Remember It is your responsibility to avoid flight into TFRs. Pilots should always check for TFRs even if only making a short, local area flight at their home airport. 5

9 Format of a TFR The content of TFRs varies. However, they have a consistent format composed of nine parts. The TFR will contain the phrase FLIGHT RESTRICTION followed by: 1. Identification of the TFR as an FDC NOTAM (see page 8) 2. The ARTCC airspace affected (see page 9) 3. The reason for, or purpose of, the TFR (see page 10) 4. The effective period of the TFR (see page 11) 5. The authority citation of the TFR (see page 12) 6. The location and dimensions of the TFR (see page 13) 7. The rationale for the TFR (see page 14) 8. Contact data for the on-scene entity in charge (see page 15) 9. Contact information that may be helpful to pilots (see page 16) 10. Any other information considered appropriate by the issuing authority Reminder TFRs are issued as FDC NOTAMs TFRs contain the phrase Flight Restriction 6

10 Format of a TFR (con t) Example of a Typical TFR in FDC NOTAM Format: *!FDC 9/7836 ZLC MT FLIGHT RESTRICTION SEELY LAKE, MT EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. PURSUANT TO 14 CFR SECTION 91, 137 (A) (2) TEMPORARY FLIGHT RESTRICTIONS ARE IN EFFECT WITHIN A 5 NAUTICAL MILE RADIUS OF N/ W OF THE MISSOULA/MSO/VOR/DME 040 DEGREE RADIAL AT 054 NM AT AND BELOW FT MSL TO PROVIDE A SAFE ENVIRONMENT FOR FIRE FIGHTING AIRCRAFT OPERATIONS. THE U.S. FOREST SERVICE, TELEPHONE / /HIGH, IS IN CHARGE OF ON SCENE EMERGENCY RESPONSE ACTIVITIES. GREAT FALLS/GTF/AFSS TELEPHONE , IS THE FAA COORDINATION FACILITY. Pages 8 through 16 illustrate the nine parts of the above TFR with each individual part highlighted within the FDC NOTAM text to demonstrate how each element of the TFR is depicted. * Great Falls AFSS, in this and the the following examples was an AFSS under the former FAA flight service network. It has since been closed, but is used here for illustration purposes. 7

11 Format of a TFR (con t) 1. Identification of the TFR as an FDC NOTAM:!FDC 9/7836 ZLC MT FLIGHT RESTRICTION SEELY LAKE, MT EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. PURSUANT TO 14 CFR SECTION 91, 137 (A) (2) TEMPORARY FLIGHT RESTRICTIONS ARE IN EFFECT WITHIN A 5 NAUTICAL MILE RADIUS OF N/ W OF THE MISSOULA/MSO/VOR/DME 040 DEGREE RADIAL AT 054 NM AT AND BELOW FT MSL TO PROVIDE A SAFE ENVIRONMENT FOR FIRE FIGHTING AIRCRAFT OPERATIONS. THE U.S. FOREST SERVICE, TELEPHONE / /HIGH, IS IN CHARGE OF ON SCENE EMERGENCY RESPONSE ACTIVITIES. GREAT FALLS/GTF/AFSS TELEPHONE , IS THE FAA COORDINATION FACILITY.!FDC 9/7836: This is the seven-thousand eight-hundred and thirty-sixth FDC NOTAM issued in the year 2009, concerning the United States National Airspace System (NAS). 8

12 2. The ARTCC airspace affected: Format of a TFR (con t)!fdc 9/7836 ZLC MT FLIGHT RESTRICTION SEELY LAKE, MT EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. PURSUANT TO 14 CFR SECTION 91, 137 (A) (2) TEMPORARY FLIGHT RESTRICTIONS ARE IN EFFECT WITHIN A 5 NAUTICAL MILE RADIUS OF N/ W OF THE MISSOULA/MSO/VOR/DME 040 DEGREE RADIAL AT 054 NM AT AND BELOW FT MSL TO PROVIDE A SAFE ENVIRONMENT FOR FIRE FIGHTING AIRCRAFT OPERATIONS. THE U.S. FOREST SERVICE, TELEPHONE / /HIGH, IS IN CHARGE OF ON SCENE EMERGENCY RESPONSE ACTIVITIES. GREAT FALLS/GTF/AFSS TELEPHONE , IS THE FAA COORDINATION FACILITY. ZLC MT ZLC is the three letter identifier for Salt Lake Air Route Traffic Control Center (ARTCC), sometimes referred to as Center. See page 41 for a complete listing of decoded ARTCC contractions. MT is the two letter identifier for the affected state, Montana. See page 42 for a complete listing of decoded state abbreviations. 9

13 Format of a TFR (con t) 3. The reason for, or purpose of, the TFR:!FDC 9/7836 ZLC MT FLIGHT RESTRICTION SEELY LAKE, MT EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. PURSUANT TO 14 CFR SECTION 91, 137 (A) (2) TEMPORARY FLIGHT RESTRICTIONS ARE IN EFFECT WITHIN A 5 NAUTICAL MILE RADIUS OF N/ W OF THE MISSOULA/MSO/VOR/DME 040 DEGREE RADIAL AT 054 NM AT AND BELOW FT MSL TO PROVIDE A SAFE ENVIRONMENT FOR FIRE FIGHTING AIRCRAFT OPERATIONS. THE U.S. FOREST SERVICE, TELEPHONE / /HIGH, IS IN CHARGE OF ON SCENE EMERGENCY RESPONSE ACTIVITIES. GREAT FALLS/GTF/AFSS TELEPHONE , IS THE FAA COORDINATION FACILITY. Some other reasons, plus others discussed throughout this book, include: 1. Closed or restricted airspace due to security concerns 2. Disaster areas 3. Special events, generating a high degree of interest 4. Flight restrictions in the proximity of the President and Other Parties (associated with the President) 10

14 4. The effective period of the TFR: Format of a TFR (con t)!fdc 9/7836 ZLC MT FLIGHT RESTRICTION SEELY LAKE, MT EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. PURSUANT TO 14 CFR SECTION 91, 137 (A) (2) TEMPORARY FLIGHT RESTRICTIONS ARE IN EFFECT WITHIN A 5 NAUTICAL MILE RADIUS OF N/ W OF THE MISSOULA/MSO/VOR/DME 040 DEGREE RADIAL AT 054 NM AT AND BELOW FT MSL TO PROVIDE A SAFE ENVIRONMENT FOR FIRE FIGHTING AIRCRAFT OPERATIONS. THE U.S. FOREST SERVICE, TELEPHONE / /HIGH, IS IN CHARGE OF ON SCENE EMERGENCY RESPONSE ACTIVITIES. GREAT FALLS/GTF/AFSS TELEPHONE , IS THE FAA COORDINATION FACILITY. The effective period may also be defined by the acronyms WIE and/or UFN. WIE = With immediate effect or effective immediately. UFN = Until further notice. 11

15 5. The authority citation of the TFR: Format of a TFR (con t)!fdc 9/7836 ZLC MT FLIGHT RESTRICTION SEELY LAKE, MT EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. PURSUANT TO 14 CFR SECTION 91, 137 (A) (2) TEMPORARY FLIGHT RESTRICTIONS ARE IN EFFECT WITHIN A 5 NAUTICAL MILE RADIUS OF N/ W OF THE MISSOULA/MSO/VOR/DME 040 DEGREE RADIAL AT 054 NM AT AND BELOW FT MSL TO PROVIDE A SAFE ENVIRONMENT FOR FIRE FIGHTING AIRCRAFT OPERATIONS. THE U.S. FOREST SERVICE, TELEPHONE / /HIGH, IS IN CHARGE OF ON SCENE EMERGENCY RESPONSE ACTIVITIES. GREAT FALLS/GTF/AFSS TELEPHONE , IS THE FAA COORDINATION FACILITY. CFR = Code of Federal Regulations. The Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) contains Presidential executive orders and regulations based on those orders, federal laws, and other federal regulations. Related matters are grouped together. Title 14, for example, deals with Aeronautics and Space. 12

16 Format of a TFR (con t) 6. The location and dimensions of the TFR:!FDC 9/7836 ZLC MT FLIGHT RESTRICTION SEELY LAKE, MT EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. PURSUANT TO 14 CFR SECTION 91, 137 (A) (2) TEMPORARY FLIGHT RESTRICTIONS ARE IN EFFECT WITHIN A 5 NAUTICAL MILE RADIUS OF N/ W OF THE MISSOULA/MSO/VOR/DME 040 DEGREE RADIAL AT 054 NM AT AND BELOW FT MSL TO PROVIDE A SAFE ENVIRONMENT FOR FIRE FIGHTING AIRCRAFT OPERATIONS. THE U.S. FOREST SERVICE, TELEPHONE / /HIGH, IS IN CHARGE OF ON SCENE EMERGENCY RESPONSE ACTIVITIES. GREAT FALLS/GTF/AFSS TELEPHONE , IS THE FAA COORDINATION FACILITY. The location and dimensions of the TFR are defined by: Latitude and Longitude, sometimes referred to as L/L, or LAT/LONG. In the above example, the LAT/LONG is N/ W. Fix, radial, and DME, sometimes referred to as FRD. In the above example, the Fix is the Missoula VOR (MSO VOR.) MSO is the three letter identifier for the Missoula VOR. In the above example, the radial is the 040 DEGREE RADIAL. In the above example, the DME is defined as AT 054 NM. At 054 DME indicates a distance of 54 nautical miles from the MSO VOR DME is the acronym for Distance Measuring Equipment. NM is the acronym for Nautical Mile. The Altitude, in the above example, is FT MSL. The origination of altitude may be defined, at times, as the SFC (surface). Altitude height restrictions may also be listed as above ground level (AGL). 13

17 7. The rationale for the TFR: Format of a TFR (con t)!fdc 9/7836 ZLC MT FLIGHT RESTRICTION SEELY LAKE, MT EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. PURSUANT TO 14 CFR SECTION 91, 137 (A) (2) TEMPORARY FLIGHT RESTRICTIONS ARE IN EFFECT WITHIN A 5 NAUTICAL MILE RADIUS OF N/ W OF THE MISSOULA/MSO/VOR/DME 040 DEGREE RADIAL AT 054 NM AT AND BELOW FT MSL TO PROVIDE A SAFE ENVIRONMENT FOR FIRE FIGHTING AIRCRAFT OPERATIONS. THE U.S. FOREST SERVICE, TELEPHONE / /HIGH, IS IN CHARGE OF ON SCENE EMERGENCY RESPONSE ACTIVITIES. GREAT FALLS/GTF/AFSS TELEPHONE , IS THE FAA COORDINATION FACILITY. In this example TFR, the rationale and the earlier described reason for, or purpose of, the TFR are the same as described on page

18 Format of a TFR (con t) 8. Contact data for the on-scene entity in charge:!fdc 9/7836 ZLC MT FLIGHT RESTRICTION SEELY LAKE, MT EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. PURSUANT TO 14 CFR SECTION 91, 137 (A) (2) TEMPORARY FLIGHT RESTRICTIONS ARE IN EFFECT WITHIN A 5 NAUTICAL MILE RADIUS OF N/ W OF THE MISSOULA/MSO/VOR/DME 040 DEGREE RADIAL AT 054 NM AT AND BELOW FT MSL TO PROVIDE A SAFE ENVIRONMENT FOR FIRE FIGHTING AIRCRAFT OPERATIONS. THE U.S. FOREST SERVICE, TELEPHONE / /HIGH, IS IN CHARGE OF ON SCENE EMERGENCY RESPONSE ACTIVITIES. GREAT FALLS/GTF/AFSS TELEPHONE , IS THE FAA COORDINATION FACILITY. TFRs, including those for forest fires, can be found at 15

19 Format of a TFR (con t) 9. Contact information that may be helpful to pilots:!fdc 9/7836 ZLC MT FLIGHT RESTRICTION SEELY LAKE, MT EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. PURSUANT TO 14 CFR SECTION 91, 137 (A) (2) TEMPORARY FLIGHT RESTRICTIONS ARE IN EFFECT WITHIN A 5 NAUTICAL MILE RADIUS OF N/ W OF THE MISSOULA/MSO/VOR/DME 040 DEGREE RADIAL AT 054 NM AT AND BELOW FT MSL TO PROVIDE A SAFE ENVIRONMENT FOR FIRE FIGHTING AIRCRAFT OPERATIONS. THE U.S. FOREST SERVICE, TELEPHONE / /HIGH, IS IN CHARGE OF ON SCENE EMERGENCY RESPONSE ACTIVITIES. GREAT FALLS /GTF/AFSS TELEPHONE , IS THE FAA COORDINATION FACILITY. GREAT FALLS/GTF/AFSS is defined as: GREAT FALLS = The name of the FAA air traffic facility. GTF = The three letter identifier of the air traffic facility Great Falls. AFSS = The type of air traffic facility - in this example, an AFSS is an Automated Flight Service Station. An ARTCC may also be listed as the FAA coordination facility. ARTCC = Air Route Traffic Control Center, or Center. See page 41 for a complete list of decoded three letter identifiers of all of the ARTCCs in the United States. 16

20 Types of TFRs There are eight types of TFRs used within the National Airspace System. They are issued under the authority of Title 14, of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR): 14 CFR Section a(1) (see page 19) 14 CFR Section a(2) (see page 20) 14 CFR Section a(3) (see page 21) 14 CFR Section (see page 21) 14 CFR Section (see page 22, 23) 14 CFR Section (see page 24) 14 CFR Section (see page 25) 14 CFR Section (see page 26, 27) The Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) contains Presidential executive orders and regulations based on those orders, federal laws, and other federal regulations. Related matters are grouped together. Title 14, for example, deals with Aeronautics and Space. Special Note 14 CFR Section TFRs concern movements or locations of the President and Vice-President of the United States, and Other Parties (associated with the President). These are the most important TFRs to understand and avoid. If a presidential TFR is violated, the pilot will suffer a mandatory 30 day suspension of his certificate. 17

21 14 CFR Section : Types of TFRs (con t) Refers to a TFR in the vicinity of Disaster or Hazard Areas. A TFR under 14 CFR Section is intended to protect persons or property on the ground or in the air from a specified hazard. The purpose of these TFRs is to prevent low flying aircraft from increasing that hazard, regardless of its nature. The three paragraphs under 14 CFR Section are: 14 CFR Section a(1) (see page 19) 14 CFR Section a(2) (see page 20) 14 CFR Section a(3) (see page 21) 18

22 14 CFR Section a(1): Types of TFRs (con t) A TFR is issued under this paragraph when it is necessary to protect persons or property on the ground or in the air from a hazard associated with an incident on the surface. Examples: Toxic gas leaks or spills Volcanic eruptions Nuclear accidents A Section a(1) TFR is the most restrictive TFR of all those issued under the authority of Section This TFR prohibits all aircraft from operating in the defined TFR area unless an aircraft is participating in the disaster or relief activities. Aircraft participating in disaster or relief activities must be operated under the direction of the official in charge of on-scene emergency response activities. The dimensions of these TFRs vary but, typically, they range from a three to five nautical (NM) radius and extend upward to 3,000 to 5,000 feet above ground level (AGL). 19

23 14 CFR Section a(2): Types of TFRs (con t) A Section a(2) TFR is meant to provide a safe environment for the operation of disaster relief aircraft. Restrictions imposed under this TFR are meant to keep non-participating air traffic away from aircraft engaged in such activities as: Fire fighting activities Avalanche control Search and rescue operations Other disaster relief activities Restrictions under this Section may be in effect for as little as a few hours to as long as several days, depending on the nature of the disaster. Unlike most other TFRs, the affected area may not be circular in shape. Boundaries of TFRs under this Section may be irregular in shape, conforming to the contours of the disaster area and to the needs of the agency coordinating relief activities. 20

24 14 CFR Section a(3): Types of TFRs (con t) A Section a(3) TFR is meant to prevent the unsafe congestion of sightseeing aircraft above disaster areas or incident sites of relatively short duration. An aircraft accident, generating a high degree of public interest would be an example of an incident covered by this Section. 14 CFR Section : A Section TFR pertains to the State of Hawaii. This Section is for pilots flying in the vicinity of the Hawaiian Islands. When a national disaster declaration has been issued, pilots flying in Hawaii should pay particular attention to looking for TFRs in the Hawaiian Islands under Section

25 14 CFR Section : Types of TFRs (con t) Below is a partial example of a Presidential and Other Party TFR in FDC NOTAM format:!fdc 9/7886 ZKC PART 1 OF 3 FLIGHT RESTRICTION SAINT LOUIS, MISSOURI, AUGUST 26, 2003 LOCAL. PURSUANT TO TITLE 14, SECTION OF THE CODE OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS AIRCRAFT FLIGHT OPERATIONS ARE PROHIBITED WITHIN 30 NMR UP TO BUT NOT INCLUDING FL180 OF... Notice, above, the SECTION This is a red flag that this FDC NOTAM is a Presidential and Other Party TFR (parties relative to the presidency). Read these NOTAMs very carefully and completely understand their times and locations. This is the Big One Do Not violate this TFR! If a presidential TFR is violated, the pilot will sustain a mandatory 30 day suspension of his certificate. TFRs issued under Section are used to protect the President, Vice President, or other public figures while traveling throughout the U.S. Before the terrorist attack on September 11, 2001, these restrictions were quite localized and seldom had a significant effect on general aviation. Restrictions under Section , since September 11, 2001, are much larger, typically established with a 30 nautical miles (NM) radius and extend up to but not including flight level 180 (FL180). Airports contained within this 30 NM radius will be affected by the restrictions of the TFR and will have a NOTAM D issued explaining limitations imposed on each airport. Pointer NOTAMs (see page 29 for an explanation) will help pilots locate the affected airport NOTAMs. 22

26 14 CFR Section : (con t) Types of TFRs (con t) Certain parts of the country have unique Section TFR restrictions associated with the Presidential and Vice Presidential residences and vacation retreats, such as: (P-49) - Crawford, Texas - (President Bush) (P-67) - Kennebunkport, Maine - (President Bush) Jackson Hole, Wyoming (Vice President Cheney) Other than the first two areas being Prohibited Areas, larger Presidential flight restrictions (TFRs) will be in effect at all three locations during all Presidential and Vice Presidential visits. These locations will likely change with the next administration after the 2008 elections. As of January 1, 2009, unique Section TFR restrictions associated with the Presidential and Vice Presidential residences and vacation retreats have yet to be established for the Obama/Biden Administration. Another area that will experience larger Presidential restrictions under Section include: P-40 - The Camp David Presidential retreat near Thurmont, Maryland The FAA and AOPA issue warning advisories about the upcoming TFRs, including Section TFRs, as advisories for pilots who have signed up for this service with their local Flight Standards District Office (FSDO), and for AOPA members who wish to avail themselves of this vital service. Reminder Presidential and Other Party Section TFRs are typically established with a 30 nautical miles (NM) radius and extend up to but not including flight level 180 (FL180). A 30 NM radius equals a 60 NM diameter! 23

27 14 CFR Section : Types of TFRs (con t) A Section TFR pertains to Flight Limitations in the Proximity of Space Flight Operations. Typically located in California, New Mexico, and Florida, these TFRs are intended to provide a safe environment for space or missile launch operations. Existing restricted or warning areas related to space or missile launch operations are activated and expanded when TFRs are issued as FDC NOTAMs under Section Adjacent airspace may sometimes be affected by the TFR as well. Since the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, space shuttle launches experience additional restrictions issued under 14 CFR Section (See pages 26 and 27). 24

28 14 CFR Section : Types of TFRs (con t) A Section TFR pertains to Management of Aircraft Operations in the Vicinity of Aerial Demonstrations and Major Sporting Events. Section TFRs are issued when determined necessary by the FAA for: Aerial demonstrations, including: Thunderbirds Blue Angels Golden Knights Major sporting events, including: The Super Bowl The Olympics World Cup Soccer At the discretion of Federal law enforcement and security officials, certain high profile sporting events, such as the Super Bowl, may have expanded airspace restrictions issued under 14 CFR Section If the President of the United States attends any of the above events, additional restrictions under 14 CFR Section will be in effect. TFR airspace restrictions under Section are generally kept to the minimum needed to manage aircraft operations near the event: Aerial demonstration restrictions are typically a 5 NM radius and up to 17,000 feet MSL. Parachute demonstrations restrictions are typically a 5 NM radius and up to 13,000feet AGL. Major sporting events restrictions are usually a 3 NM radius and up to 2,500 feet AGL. However, the altitude restriction rises up to 3,000 feet AGL for any stadium with a seat capacity of 30,000 or more people. 14 CFR Section 99.7 provides more detail on these Sports NOTAMs (see pages 26 and 27). 25

29 Types of TFRs (con t) 14 CFR Section 99.7: A Section 99.7 TFR pertains to Special Security Instructions. The FAA uses Section 99.7 to issue specific restrictions in the interest of national security. Under the authority of Section 99.7, TFRs surrounding any stadium with a seating capacity of 30,000 or more persons prohibits aircraft and parachute operations at and below 3,000 AGL and within a 3 NM radius. Restrictions are in effect from one hour before the scheduled time of the event until one hour after the conclusion of the event. Typical examples of these sporting events include: The World Series The Super Bowl Major motor speedway events NCAA Division-One football games Pilots who regularly fly in the vicinity of major universities would be wise to obtain a copy of college football schedules to use as an unofficial TFR schedule. Under this Section, a continuing notice is in effect to alert pilots to not circle or loiter in the airspace above, or in proximity to sites, such as: Nuclear power plants Conventional power plants Refineries Industrial complexes Dams Military installations Other similar facilities 26

30 14 CFR Section 99.7 (con t): Types of TFRs (con t) In response to specific security threat assessments, TFRs under Section 99.7 may also be issued around: Major cities Military installations National landmarks With such a wide range of ground features protected by Section 99.7, TFR restrictions have no standardized shape and may vary greatly in size. Due to these variations in TFR size and shape, pilots should use extra special care in planning flights near these areas. Section 99.7 is also employed for implementing TFR restrictions for space shuttle launch operations. Typically, a 30 NM radius surrounds the shuttle launch point. Additional requirements and operational limitations may be imposed beyond the typical 30 NM radius depending on distance from the launch control facility. When flying near central Florida, pilots should always check for TFRs, particularly in the vicinity of Cape Kennedy. 27

31 National Security Areas Though not a TFR, a National Security Area (NSA) consists of airspace defined by vertical and lateral dimensions established at locations where there is a requirement for increased security and safety of ground facilities. Pilots are requested to voluntarily avoid flying through depicted NSAs. On Sectional charts, NSAs are depicted by segmented magenta lines enclosing the area with the legend, Notice - for reasons of national security, pilots are requested to avoid flight below 5,500 msl in this area. (The altitude will vary, depending on the area depicted.) A National Security Area (NSA) is preferable to a restricted area or prohibited area because of its flexibility in preventing airspace from being permanently lost to pilots. When it is determined necessary to provide a greater level of security and safety for a National Security Area, the FAA will issue a TFR as an FDC NOTAM under the provisions of 14 CFR Section

32 Pointer NOTAMs A Pointer NOTAM highlights or points out another NOTAM. Examples include: An FDC NOTAM concerning a security related temporary flight restriction (TFR), such as a presidential movement, or the Washington, D.C. ADIZ. A NOTAM D, such as a parachute jump (PJE)NOTAM. The purpose of a Pointer NOTAM is to assist pilots in cross referencing important information that may not be found under an airport or NAVAID identifier, and could be easily overlooked. Example:!DCA 03/237 ANP TFR SEE FDC ZDC 2126 The above Pointer NOTAM is advising the pilot to locate and read FDC NOTAM 03/2126 in Washington ARTCC airspace that may significantly affect the pilot's flight. The word SEE in the Pointer NOTAM is a red flag to seek out the referenced NOTAM. The information provided by the referenced NOTAM is critical to national security - not to mention your ticket! This FDC NOTAM explains the flight restrictions for the Washington, D.C. area ADIZ, describing emergency air traffic rules and procedures. Remember Always look for the word SEE when performing your NOTAM check to locate TFRs that may affect your flight. 29

33 The Washington, D.C. SFRA & FRZ Even though this booklet is concerned with TFRs, the below summary of airspace restrictions surrounding the national capital is included to alert pilots that special procedures apply to the Washington, D.C. area. It s incredibly perplexing how often this airspace is encroached upon by pilots who should know better those based a short distance away, such as in southern Pennsylvania. The DC Special Flight Rules Area (SFRA) is codified in 14 CFR Part 93. The SFRA, which includes the Flight Restricted Zone (FRZ), is National Defense Airspace. Laterally, the SFRA is the airspace within a 30-nm radius of the DCA VOR/DME. Vertically, it begins at the surface and extends up to, but does not include, flight level 180. The Flight Restricted Zone (FRZ) is within, and part of the SFRA. This area is subject to additional security requirements and procedures. This is the most limiting airspace within the DC. The FRZ has a unique and irregular boundary. The Flight Restricted Zone is self-defining - STAY OUT! If you are a pilot who may one day conduct a flight along the eastern seaboard in the Mid-Atlantic region, whether going from Maine to Florida, or Florida to Maine, and points in between, realize that the DC SFRA may very likely be along your route of flight. The purpose of the Washington, D.C. Special Flight Rules Area (DC SFRA) is to provide for the immediate identification, location, and control of aircraft within its airspace for national security. There are different procedures for flying VFR and IFR into the SFRA, and for flying VFR through the SFRA. A ground-based Visual Warning System (VWS), flashing low-level beams of alternating red and green lights is directed at straying pilots, warning that they are flying into the SFRA without authorization. This narrow beam of alternating red and green warning lights stands out among city and radio tower lights at night, and scenery clutter during the day. The VWS serves as a rapid means of contacting pilots when radio attempts have failed. Much more detailed information is available at: 30

34 Special Use Airspace The below types of airspace are permanent in nature. This airspace is not designated as Temporary Flight Restrictions. This special use airspace is contained within the United States National Airspace System and should be regarded as areas to avoid or within which to exercise special vigilance when planning and conducting a flight. Prohibited Area - Designated airspace within which the flight of an aircraft is not allowed for security or other reasons associated with the national welfare. Avoid these areas! Restricted Area - Designated airspace within which flight is subject to restrictions. They indicate the existence of unusual hazards such as artillery firing or aerial gunnery. You must receive permission from the using or controlling agency to enter a restricted area between designated altitudes during specified times. Get permission to enter these areas! Warning Area - Designated airspace located over international waters along ocean coastlines. U.S. military forces conduct hazardous operations within these areas. No restriction to flight is imposed. However, civil aircraft should be aware of possible hazardous conditions. Be alert to see and avoid in these areas! Alert Area - Designated airspace containing a high volume of pilot training activity or unusual aeronautical activity not hazardous to aircraft. No flight restrictions apply, but pilots should be especially alert for collision avoidance. Be alert to see and avoid in these areas! Military Operations Area (MOA) - Designated airspace containing military training activities depicted to alert pilots of their location. MOAs do not restrict VFR operations, however always exercise extreme caution whenever training activity is in progress. Be alert to see and avoid in these areas! 31

35 Special Use Airspace (con t) Other airspace Charted National Park Service Areas U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Areas U.S. Forest Service Areas Although not classified as special use airspace, these areas have flight limitations imposed by the agencies that administer them. See the margin of sectional charts for information concerning flight over these areas. Altitude restrictions are often applied to reduce the bird strike hazard and/or to reduce noise disturbance to the area below. Special use airspace is depicted on aeronautical charts in many shapes and sizes. Information is provided on the borders of these charts concerning altitudes, times of use, contacting agency, and notice to airmen (NOTAM) information. Contacting the Agencies Using agency - The agency, organization, or military command whose activity required the establishment of special use airspace. Contact the using agency for information on warning and alert areas. Flight Service should have using agency phone numbers on file for you to call. Controlling agency - The FAA facility or military ATC facility that may approve flight through or within a restricted area. Request permission in flight by radio. Pilots may contact either the using or controlling agency for authorization to fly through or within special use airspace. Requesting permission from the controlling agency would be the simplest and most expedient method to gain entry into special use airspace. 32

36 Military Training Routes Military Training Routes (MTRs) are established for low-altitude military training operations with airspeeds exceeding 250 knots indicated airspeed (KIAS) below 10,000 feet MSL (and sometimes higher altitudes). The route centerline is depicted on aeronautical charts. Normal route width is five to ten miles either side of the centerline. Some route segments may be as narrow as two miles or as wide as twenty miles from the centerline. Two types of charted military training routes: IRs (IFR MTRs) - Operations conducted under instrument flight rules regardless of weather conditions. VRs (VFR MTRs) - Operations conducted under visual flight rules during VFR weather conditions. When receiving a weather briefing pilots must specifically request military training route information, otherwise pilots will not be told about MTR activity. While on a flight, contact the local flight service station for military training route information along your course. It is in all pilots best interest to always keep alert for hi-speed military traffic when flying in the vicinity of MTRs - even if they are inactive. Regardless of the times of scheduled use and the routes depicted on charts, high performance military aircraft sometimes fly during unscheduled times and military pilots do occasionally fly off course. The Department of Defense publishes three Area Planning Charts detailing the Military Training Routes covering the Eastern, Central, and Western U.S. 33

37 Protecting Yourself The FAA mantra is that the best way to protect yourself from inadvertent entry into a TFR is to call a flight service station for a pilot weather briefing and be sure to specifically ask for TFR information. TFRs are disseminated to flight service before other non-governmental entities receive this information. Flight service is your first and best source for TFR notifications and updates. Pilot weather briefers are experienced in the art of deciphering the plethora of data the typical TFR contains. All of the above may be true. However, even pilot weather briefers sometimes overlook critical data due to the clutter of non-pertinent information presented on their computer screens. As a result, it s always a good practice to record the date, time, and name of the flight service station from which you received your weather briefing. Be sure to ask the briefer for his operating initials, as well. Recordings of weather briefings are maintained for 15 days. If you violate a TFR that you believe a flight service weather briefer failed to give you during your briefing, your attorney may request a transcript of the weather briefing which may prove helpful in your defense. Remember You have only 15 days to obtain your recording. After receiving TFR information from a flight service weather briefing, refer to your charts to determine if the TFR boundaries are pertinent to your route of flight. Plan your route to give the TFR a wide berth. Supplement your flight service briefing with any one, preferably more, of the additional resources listed on the next pages. 34

38 Protecting Yourself (con t) Check with DUAT.com (Direct User Access Terminal) for TFR text and graphics. Check the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association website: for TFR text and graphics. Join AOPA. Subscribe to Areoplanner.com for TFR information in text form and graphics. Aeroplanner.com arranges TFRs by state in text form and also offers a national map that serves as a nice overview of TFRs nationwide. View the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC) web site for TFR graphics. This is a great site offering many more TFR resources! Call flight service while flying en route for updates of not only weather, but for TFR information, as well. Columns of smoke in wooded areas encountered along the route of flight may signify a forest fire TFR. Be aware, however, that flight service may not be aware of TFRs issued for new forest fires. Therefore, avoidance of smoke columns by at least five miles is a good practice to avoid infringing upon possible TFR airspace restrictions. Get sports schedules for professional football and baseball games and collegiate NCAA Division One football games in your local flying area. Anticipate TFRs over sports stadiums and motor sports speedways. TFRs will quite often mention a city and state in the text. As part of your flight kit, include a road atlas with a good city index to help you find affected locations. Enter the lat-long coordinates or plot the radial and distance of the TFR location reference into an on board or a hand held GPS unit to see it on your GPS map. Request VFR flight following from Center. If you are current and qualified, file an IFR flight plan even if the weather is good. Center controllers have all TFRs plotted on their radar screens, and they can help you avoid TFR airspace. 35

39 Internet Information Sources The Internet resources listed on these pages may be redundant in some cases. Check them out and choose the web sites that work best for you. If this web site doesn t have it for official FAA information, you don t need it! Information rich and efficient, the web site offers answers to many aviators questions. The first few URLs featured below can be found on this web site with the aid of the site s efficient site index. ******************** This official FAA web site offers great TFR information, listing TFRs by type, state, and ARTCC (Center) in table format. An interactive national TFR map is also featured. Even though this web site is highly detailed, the FAA still advises pilots to contact flight service. ******************** This web site contains electronic versions of official printed FAA documents. The electronic versions of the documents differ somewhat in format from the original printed versions due to the conversion process. The printed copies of Air Traffic orders and manuals should be considered the official versions. Here, you will find information on Intercept Procedures in the electronic Aeronautical Information Manual, Chapter 5, Section 6. ******************** The above web site offers detailed information about the Visual Warning System (VWS) used to protect restricted airspace around Washington, D.C. by emitting distinctive light signals to alert pilots who do not have authorization to enter the Washington SFRA. ******************** 36

40 Internet Information Sources (con t) DUAT is the Direct User Access Terminal service for pilots. This service provides direct access to weather briefing, flight planning, and flight plan filing information to allow pilots to obtain a self briefing and file a flight plan prior to flying. The service is free to qualified pilots, dispatchers, and other authorized users. With the DUAT service, you can view NOTAM and TFR information Remember, though, that if you plan to fly into the Washington, D.C. ADIZ, you cannot file your flight plan through DUAT - you must file your flight plan with a flight service station. ******************** AeroPlanner.com provides pilots with planning tools and data available on the Internet. You can view all NOS sectional charts online, query FAA navigation databases, plot routes based on airports and navaids, print tripticks, and store log information all online. This web site requires membership for complete services. ******************** AOPA epilot Airspace Bulletins are ed to AOPA members whenever TFRs are implemented in their area. If you have not already done so, join AOPA to receive not only the protection of epilot s, but to avail yourself of their many other benefits, as well. ******************** 37

41 Internet Information Sources (con t) The AOPA posts new TFR information on this web page as soon as possible after it is issued by the FAA. Graphical depictions are displayed. ******************** This is AOPA s Real-Time Flight Planner, powered by Jeppesen, which provides graphical depictions, as well as plain language text translations of TFRs. The web page also offers a graphical depiction of the Washington, D.C. ADIZ highlighted with a thick red & white shaded border. ******************** This is AOPA s Air Safety Institute s Know Before You Go program web page. "Know Before You Go" was designed to take the mystery out of it all and to help you navigate today's changing airspace restrictions without incident. ******************** AOPA s Air Safety Foundation s (ASF) downloadable intercept procedures card (in Acrobat Reader PDF format) is taken from the FAA s Aeronautical Information Manual, Table and Table ******************** This is the AOPA web site where pilots may obtain information or begin coverage immediately in receiving AOPA s Legal Services Plan protection. The AOPA Legal Services Plan was developed to make aviation legal assistance and representation affordable for pilots. ******************** 38

42 Internet Information Sources (con t) For pilots who may have additional questions about TFRs or any other airspace matter, contact the AOPA Pilot Information Center at: Mailing Address: 800-USA-AOPA ( ) or AOPA 421 Aviation Way Frederick, MD ******************** FAA Flight Standards District Offices (FSDO) offer alerts of flight restrictions in your area, as well as notifications of scheduled aviation safety seminars. You, the pilot, must register with your local FSDO to receive these alerts. If you have not done so already, simply log into and register your current address to begin receiving these alerts. Your notification of future FAA seminars, TFR s, and Presidential TFRs will depend on your registration. ******************** The FAA s Special Use Airspace (SUA) & Air Traffic Control Assigned Airspace graphical web page offers current SUA listings and maps, including their start and end times, elevations, and more. 39

43 TFR Contractions Decoder ADIZ - Air Defense Identification Zone AFSS - Automated Flight Service Station AGL - above ground level AMDT - amendment BLW CFR CNL DME FAA FDC FRZ FT MSL NM NMR - below - Code of Federal Regulations - cancel/canceled - Distance Measuring Equipment - Federal Aviation Administration - Flight Data Center - flight restricted zone - feet - mean sea level - nautical miles - nautical mile radius SCAT - security control of air traffic SCATANA - security control of air traffic and air navigation aids SFC TSA UFN UNL WIE ZZZ - surface - Transportation Security Administration - until further notice - unlimited - effective immediately/with immediate effect - identifier for an urgent special data NOTAM 40

44 ARTCC (Center) Contractions Decoder ZAB - Albuquerque Center ARTCC ZAN - Anchorage Center ARTCC ZAU - Chicago Center ARTCC ZBW - Boston Center ARTCC ZDC - Washington Center ARTCC ZDV - Denver Center ARTCC ZBW - Fort Worth Center ARTCC ZHU - Houston Center ARTCC ZID - Indianapolis Center ARTCC ZJX - Jacksonville Center ARTCC ZKC - Kansas City Center ARTCC ZLA - Los Angeles Center ARTCC ZLC - Salt Lake City Center ARTCC ZMA - Miami Center ARTCC ZME - Memphis Center ARTCC ZMP - Minneapolis Center ARTCC ZNY - New York Center ARTCC ZOA - Oakland Center ARTCC ZOB - Cleveland Center ARTCC ZSE - Seattle Center ARTCC ZTL - Atlanta Center ARTCC 41

45 State Contractions Decoder AK Alaska AL Alabama AR Arkansas AZ Arizona CA California CO Colorado CT Connecticut DC District of Columbia DE Delaware FL Florida GA Georgia HI Hawaii IA Iowa ID Idaho IL Illinois IN Indiana KS Kansas KY Kentucky LA Louisiana MA Massachusetts MD Maryland ME Maine MI Michigan MN Minnesota MO Missouri MS Mississippi MT Montana NC North Carolina ND North Dakota NE Nebraska NH New Hampshire NJ New Jersey NM New Mexico NV Nevada NY New York OH Ohio OK Oklahoma OR Oregon PA Pennsylvania RI Rhode Island SC South Carolina SD South Dakota 42