Plain English Meaning

A block of airspace where dangerous activities may be taking place. You can sometimes fly through it, but only with permission, and only when it is not in use.

Full Definition

A category of special use airspace within which the flight of aircraft, while not wholly prohibited, is subject to restrictions because of unusual and often invisible hazards to nonparticipating aircraft, such as artillery firing, aerial gunnery, or guided missiles. Authorization from the controlling agency is required before a nonparticipating aircraft may enter restricted airspace when it is active.

Context Anchor

Pilots see restricted airspace on charts, in route planning, and during IFR or VFR flights near military training or weapons-use areas.