Flight limitation in the proximity of space flight operations

When the FAA issues a NOTAM for a space flight operation — a rocket launch or reentry — § 91.143 makes the airspace in that NOTAM effectively off-limits. No U.S.-registered aircraft, and no aircraft flown under an FAA airman certificate, may operate inside the designated area except when authorized by ATC.

This is how the National Airspace System is cleared around launch and reentry windows: the published NOTAM defines the protected volume and times, and crossing it requires explicit ATC authorization. As commercial launch cadence has grown, these NOTAMs have become a routine planning item for flights near launch ranges (Florida's Space Coast, Vandenberg, and others).

Treat a space-flight NOTAM like any other airspace restriction: check it during preflight planning, plan a route that stays clear during the active window, and don't enter without ATC approval.

Summary: When a NOTAM is published for a space flight (launch/reentry), no U.S. aircraft or FAA-certificated pilot may operate inside the designated area unless ATC authorizes it — check these NOTAMs in preflight planning, especially near launch ranges.