FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot (UAG)Airspace and Operating RequirementsMedium
While reviewing a sectional chart, a remote pilot notices an area outlined by a blue dashed line and labeled 'NATIONAL SECURITY AREA.' What should the pilot understand about operating near this designation?
- AFlight is prohibited at all times within the charted boundary without exception.
- BThe designation applies only to manned aircraft and has no bearing on UAS operations.
- CPilots are requested to voluntarily avoid the area, though flight restrictions may be imposed by regulation when deemed necessary for security.
- DThe area functions identically to a Restricted Area, always requiring permission from the controlling agency.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Pilots are requested to voluntarily avoid the area, though flight restrictions may be imposed by regulation when deemed necessary for security.
National Security Areas (NSAs) are established over sensitive locations to request voluntary avoidance by pilots. Under 14 CFR 99.7, the FAA may make flight within an NSA mandatory through a NOTAM when necessary for security reasons, but absent such action, avoidance is voluntary.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. NSAs are voluntary by default, unlike Prohibited Areas which are always off-limits.
- B. UAS pilots must also respect NSA guidance since it applies to all aircraft, including drones.
- D. Restricted Areas require prior permission at all times; NSAs generally do not unless a NOTAM makes compliance mandatory.
National Security Area (NSA)
Airspace established over sensitive locations where pilots are requested to voluntarily avoid flight; the FAA may make avoidance mandatory via regulation when necessary.
- Charted with a blue dashed line
- Voluntary avoidance by default
- 14 CFR 99.7 allows FAA to make flight restrictions mandatory
- Different from Prohibited or Restricted Areas which have fixed legal restrictions
Memory trick: 'NSA says please' — voluntary avoidance unless the FAA insists.