Special Use Airspace Flashcards

Which of the following special use airspace types is NOT depicted on standard VFR sectional charts?

Answer: Controlled Firing Areas

Controlled Firing Areas are not charted because operations are suspended when non-participating aircraft approach, so they pose no hazard requiring chart depiction.

On a sectional chart, altitude limits of special use airspace are expressed:

Answer: In feet MSL, with high upper limits shown as flight levels

Special use airspace altitudes are shown in feet MSL, and high upper limits are expressed as flight levels (e.g., 'SFC-FL 180').

On a sectional chart, Warning Areas are typically depicted:

Answer: Along U.S. coastlines and over international waters

Warning Areas are located in international airspace beginning 3 nautical miles from U.S. coastlines, where the FAA cannot prohibit flight but can warn pilots.

The notation 'SFC-FL 180' for a Restricted Area on a sectional chart means the area extends:

Answer: From the surface up to Flight Level 180 (18,000 feet MSL)

'SFC' means the surface of the earth, so 'SFC-FL 180' indicates restricted airspace extends from ground level to 18,000 feet MSL.

An area labeled 'A-211' on a sectional chart identifies:

Answer: Alert Area number 211

The 'A-' prefix designates an Alert Area, and 211 is its unique numerical identifier on the sectional chart.

Which type of special use airspace requires pilots to obtain explicit permission from the controlling agency before entering when active?

Answer: Restricted Area

Entry into an active Restricted Area requires specific authorization from the controlling or using agency — unlike MOAs, Alert Areas, or Warning Areas.

On a sectional chart, MOA depictions are shown in what color, distinguishing them from Restricted and Prohibited Areas?

Answer: Magenta, distinct from blue restricted/prohibited area depictions

MOAs are depicted in magenta on sectional charts, while Restricted and Prohibited Areas use blue, making the two types visually distinct.