Using agency

A "using agency" is the military command or organization whose activities required a restricted area to be established in the first place. This regulation defines their responsibilities.

The using agency must schedule activities in the restricted area and, when feasible, authorize aircraft to transit through or fly within it. They're also responsible for keeping their activities contained within the area's boundaries according to its designated purpose.

When the FAA requests it, the using agency must establish written procedures with the controlling agency (typically an FAA facility) for joint use of the airspace. Under these procedures, the using agency notifies the controlling agency when the restricted area isn't being used, allowing the controlling agency to grant transit permission to pilots who request it.

This matters because it establishes who decides when restricted airspace is actually "hot" and creates a framework for pilots to potentially use that airspace when military operations aren't active.

*This is a plain-English summary for study only. The official 14 CFR text on this page is controlling — always read the current regulation and consult a CFI.*