FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot (UAG)OperationsMedium
A remote pilot is planning a survey flight near a hydroelectric dam that is charted on the sectional as a National Security Area (NSA). What is the operational significance of this designation?
- APilots are requested to voluntarily avoid the area, and flight may be restricted by NOTAM during heightened security concerns
- BEntry is permanently and legally prohibited to all aircraft with no exceptions
- CATC clearance identical to Class B airspace requirements is mandatory at all times
- DThe area is reserved exclusively for parachute jump operations
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Pilots are requested to voluntarily avoid the area, and flight may be restricted by NOTAM during heightened security concerns
A National Security Area is established over sensitive locations where pilots are requested to voluntarily avoid flight; the FAA may issue a NOTAM to make flight restrictions mandatory during periods of increased security concern.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. This describes a Prohibited Area (P-), not an NSA.
- C. NSAs do not carry Class B clearance requirements.
- D. NSAs are unrelated to parachute operations.
National Security Area (NSA)
Airspace established over sensitive locations (e.g., dams, power plants) where pilots are requested to voluntarily avoid flight; can become mandatory via NOTAM.
- Voluntary avoidance requested normally
- NOTAM can make restriction mandatory
- Charted with a dashed magenta outline and 'NSA' label
Memory trick: NSA = 'Nicely Stay Away' unless a NOTAM says you must.