StudyWhat is a Prohibited Area?
- ❌A:An area where UAS operations are allowed with NOTAM
- ✅B:Airspace established for security or national welfare where flight is forbidden
- ❌C:An area with occasional UAS restrictions published in sectional charts
Explanations
- A: Incorrect. Prohibited areas are zones where all flight operations are strictly forbidden, regardless of any NOTAMs. For businesses, this means no drone operations can be conducted in these areas, which can impact project planning and logistics.
- B: Correct. Prohibited areas are established for security or national welfare reasons, and all flight operations, including drone operations, are forbidden. Businesses must be aware of these areas and plan their operations accordingly to avoid safety risks, regulatory violations, and potential fines.
- C: Incorrect. An area with occasional UAS restrictions published in sectional charts does not define a prohibited area. It could be a Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) or a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) area. Businesses should monitor these areas closely as they can change frequently and impact operations.
🧭 Instructor Note
Why This Matters for Your Business
Understanding Prohibited Areas is crucial for businesses that use drones. These areas are strictly off-limits for all flight operations, including drones. Ignorance or disregard of these areas can lead to safety risks, regulatory violations, and potential fines, all of which can negatively impact a business's reputation and bottom line.
Safety & Liability Considerations
Flying a drone in a Prohibited Area poses significant safety risks, potentially endangering national security or welfare. It can also lead to legal liabilities, including hefty fines and potential criminal charges. Businesses must prioritize safety and compliance by ensuring they are aware of and respect all Prohibited Areas.
Consider This Scenario
A real estate company uses drones to capture aerial footage of properties for marketing purposes. They plan to shoot a high-end property that, unbeknownst to them, is located near a Prohibited Area. Without proper pre-flight planning and airspace knowledge, they risk violating airspace regulations and facing severe consequences. By understanding Prohibited Areas, they can plan their operations accordingly, ensuring safety and compliance.
What the FAA is Testing
The FAA wants to ensure that drone operators understand the nature and implications of Prohibited Areas. This knowledge is essential for maintaining safety and security in these sensitive areas.
Business Success Strategy
Businesses can turn this knowledge into a competitive advantage by demonstrating their commitment to safety and compliance. By consistently checking for Prohibited Areas before each operation, businesses can avoid unnecessary risks and demonstrate their professionalism to clients.
Memory Aid
Remember, Prohibited Areas are "No-Go Zones." No flight operations, including drones, are allowed in these areas for security or national welfare reasons.
Enhanced References
FAA Aeronautical Chart User's Guide, Sectional Charts, 14 CFR § 73.3 - Prohibited areas.
Related Concepts
- Special Use Airspace
- Flight restrictions
- Sectional chart symbols
- Business operational planning
- Regulatory compliance
ACS Code: UA.II.A.K2
Difficulty: basic