AIM Text
Prohibited areas contain airspace of defined dimensions identified by an area on the surface of the earth within which the flight of aircraft is prohibited. Such areas are established for security or other reasons associated with the national welfare. These areas are published in the Federal Register and are depicted on aeronautical charts.
Source: FAA Aeronautical Information Manual · current edition · paragraph 3-4-2.
Research Notes
AIM 3-4-2 covers Prohibited Areas — airspace where civilian operations are prohibited at all times.
Major prohibited areas:
- P-40: Camp David, Maryland
- P-49: Texas White House (when designated)
- P-56: National Capital Region (NCR), Washington DC
- P-67: Various locations
Why they exist: National security, classified operations, sensitive sites. Civilian access prohibited absolutely.
Enforcement: Penetrating a prohibited area triggers immediate response — Secret Service, military intercept, possible criminal action under 49 USC § 46307. The DC SFRA/FRZ around P-56 is the most heavily-enforced airspace in the system.