FAA Private Pilot Helicopter (PRH)RegulationsEasy
While planning a VFR cross-country flight, a pilot notices that the route passes directly over a charted Prohibited Area. What action must the pilot take?
- ARequest a clearance from the overlying ARTCC before entering
- BFly through above 5,000 feet AGL to remain clear of the restriction
- CContact the nearest Flight Service Station for a special VFR clearance to transit the area
- DAvoid flight through the area entirely, since entry is not permitted without specific government authorization
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Avoid flight through the area entirely, since entry is not permitted without specific government authorization
Prohibited areas are established for security or national welfare reasons, and flight is not allowed within them without specific authorization from the controlling agency—altitude or ATC clearance does not grant access. Pilots must plan their route to avoid the area entirely.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. ARTCC cannot authorize entry into a prohibited area; special authorization is required from the controlling agency.
- B. No altitude exception exists that permits flight through a prohibited area.
- C. Special VFR applies to surface-based Class B/C/D/E airspace with reduced weather minimums, not prohibited areas.
Prohibited Area
Special use airspace within which flight is prohibited for security or other reasons, depicted on charts as 'P-' followed by a number.
- No flight allowed without specific authorization
- Established for national security/welfare
- Charted with blue hatched border and 'P-XXX' designator
Memory trick: 'P' is for 'Prohibited... Period' — no entry, no exceptions.