FAA Flight Instructor Airplane (FIA)Navigation and AirspaceEasy
A student pilot notices an area on the sectional chart labeled with an 'A' and a number (e.g., 'A-123'), described in the legend as containing a high volume of pilot training or unusual aerial activity. This is best identified as:
- Aan Alert Area
- Ba Military Operations Area
- Ca Restricted Area
- Da National Security Area
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. an Alert Area
Alert Areas are depicted on sectional charts to inform pilots of areas with a high volume of pilot training or unusual aerial activity. They are non-restrictive, but pilots should exercise vigilance since no special clearance is required.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. MOAs are labeled with names, not 'A-' designators, and are used for military training maneuvers.
- C. Restricted Areas are labeled 'R-' and require permission to enter.
- D. NSAs are depicted with dashed blue lines and a note, not an 'A-' number.
Alert Area
A type of special use airspace depicted with an 'A-' designator, indicating high volumes of pilot training or unusual aerial activity; entry is not restricted but caution is advised.
- No ATC clearance required to enter.
- Both civilian and military traffic must see-and-avoid.
- Charted with a magenta or blue outline and 'A-' number.
Memory trick: 'Alert = A for Awareness, not Authorization.'