Special Federal Aviation Regulation No. 79—Prohibition Against Certain Flights in the Pyongyang Flight Information Region (FIR) (ZKKP)
Read the official ruleThis regulation prohibits most flight operations in North Korean airspace (the Pyongyang Flight Information Region).
Who it affects:
- U.S. airlines and commercial operators
- Anyone exercising FAA pilot certificate privileges (unless flying a U.S.-registered aircraft for a foreign carrier)
- Operators of U.S.-registered aircraft (unless the operator is a foreign carrier)
You cannot fly in this airspace unless you have FAA approval for U.S. government contract work, an FAA exemption, or you're responding to an in-flight emergency. If you deviate due to emergency (and aren't an air carrier or commercial operator under Parts 119/121/125/135), you must report it to your Flight Standards Office within 10 days, excluding weekends and federal holidays.
This restriction exists due to safety and security concerns and remains in effect until September 18, 2028, unless the FAA modifies it earlier.
*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.*