Temporary flight restrictions in the vicinity of disaster/hazard areas

In plain English

The FAA issues TFRs by NOTAM to protect people and property near a hazard (a wildfire or accident), to protect disaster-relief aircraft, or to prevent a dangerous congestion of sightseers. Depending on the paragraph used, only specific aircraft (relief, official, accredited media by arrangement) may enter; everyone else must stay out.

Key points

• TFRs are established by NOTAM around disasters and hazards.
• Three purposes: protect surface persons/property, protect relief operations, and prevent sightseeing congestion.
• Access is limited to specified aircraft; all others are excluded.

Common pitfalls

• Blundering into a wildfire or accident TFR — check NOTAMs on every flight.

Summary: §91.137 TFRs, published by NOTAM, restrict flight around disasters/hazards to protect people, relief operations and prevent sightseeing congestion — check NOTAMs and stay out unless specifically permitted.