Special use airspace

Special use airspace is defined as specific blocks of airspace where certain activities require containment or where aircraft operations face restrictions. This regulation establishes how these areas are defined and measured.

Dimensions: The vertical boundaries are expressed either as flight levels or feet above mean sea level, with specific floor and ceiling altitudes. When you see "to" followed by an altitude (like "to FL180"), it means "to and including" that altitude. Horizontal boundaries are defined by geographic coordinates or other clear references that mark the area's perimeter.

Timing: Each special use airspace designation specifies when it's active—some operate continuously while others have specific hours or days.

This matters because you need to understand these dimensional definitions when planning flights. Knowing whether you're inside or outside special use airspace boundaries, both horizontally and vertically, determines what restrictions or clearances apply to your flight.

*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.*