FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot (UAG)Airspace and Operating RequirementsMedium
While reviewing a sectional chart, a remote pilot notices a magenta-bordered area labeled 'ALERT AREA' with an A-number. What should the pilot understand about this airspace?
- AIt contains a high volume of pilot training or unusual aerial activity, and pilots should exercise extra caution
- BIt automatically converts to Class G airspace after sunset
- CIt requires the same ATC authorization process as Class B airspace
- DIt is closed to all civil aircraft including UAS at all times
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. It contains a high volume of pilot training or unusual aerial activity, and pilots should exercise extra caution
Alert areas advise pilots of airspace that may contain a high volume of pilot training or an unusual type of aerial activity; there is no regulatory requirement to avoid them, but extra vigilance is advised for all aircraft, manned and unmanned.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Alert area status has nothing to do with time of day or lighting conditions.
- C. Alert areas do not require the ATC authorization process that controlled airspace does.
- D. Alert areas are not closed airspace; they simply warn of increased activity.
Alert Area
Charted airspace that may contain a high volume of pilot training activities or unusual aerial activity; all pilots are advised to use extra caution.
- Depicted on sectionals as an A-numbered area
- No special ATC authorization required to enter
- Activity level varies; caution advised, not prohibition
- Common near flight training bases or gliderports
Memory trick: Alert = 'Look Alert!' extra training traffic ahead