FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot (UAG)OperationsMedium
While planning a flight near Washington, D.C., a remote pilot in command reviews a sectional chart and notices airspace outlined by a solid blue border with hash marks, labeled 'P-40.' What must the pilot do regarding this airspace?
- AOperate freely below 400 feet AGL without restriction
- BRequest a standard LAANC authorization before entry
- CNever enter without specific, case-by-case authorization due to national security concerns
- DEnter only during scheduled military training exercises
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Never enter without specific, case-by-case authorization due to national security concerns
A 'P-' designation indicates a Prohibited Area, established for security or other reasons, where flight is barred at all times without specific authorization from the controlling agency. Unlike Restricted Areas, Prohibited Areas are not subject to LAANC and generally remain closed continuously.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Prohibited areas bar entry regardless of altitude.
- B. LAANC does not apply to Prohibited Areas.
- D. Prohibited Areas are not tied to training schedules like Restricted Areas.
Prohibited Area (P-)
Airspace designated 'P-' where aircraft flight is prohibited at all times for security or other reasons, shown on sectional charts with a blue border.
- Labeled with 'P-' followed by a number
- No LAANC authorization available
- Entry requires specific government approval
Memory trick: 'P is for Prohibited — Permanently Padlocked'