Definition
Airspace of defined dimensions, designated by regulation, within which the flight of aircraft is prohibited. Prohibited areas are established for security or other reasons associated with the national welfare and are depicted on aeronautical charts with a 'P' followed by an identifying number (for example, P-56 over the White House and U.S. Capitol).
Plain English
A specific block of airspace where aircraft are not allowed to fly at all. The boundaries are published on charts, and entry is forbidden by federal regulation.
Context Anchor
Pilots encounter prohibited airspace during route planning, chart review, and when checking whether a planned flight path crosses special use airspace.
Derivation
From Latin 'prohibere,' meaning 'to hold back' or 'forbid.' The word signals an absolute restriction, not a conditional one — flight is held back entirely, not merely controlled or coordinated.
Why Pilots Care
Pilots must avoid these areas to prevent violations that can result in severe penalties, enforcement action, or safety risks.
Intuition Check
Do not read “prohibited” as “use caution” or “permission may be routine.” In this FAA context, it means aircraft flight is not allowed unless a specific, official exception applies.
Example Sentence 1
While planning the cross-country, the pilot routed well clear of P-40 over Camp David, since prohibited airspace cannot be entered under any circumstances.
Example Sentence 2
Entry into prohibited airspace requires prior authorization from the FAA.