Plain English Meaning

A rule that closes off or limits a piece of airspace for a short time, usually because something below or nearby needs protection -- a wildfire, a major event, a VIP movement, or a disaster scene.

Full Definition

A short-term restriction issued by the FAA, typically through a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM), that prohibits or limits aircraft operations within a defined block of airspace for a stated period. Temporary Flight Restrictions are used to protect persons or property on the surface or in the air from a hazard, to provide a safe environment for disaster relief or law enforcement operations, to protect the President, Vice President, and other public figures, and to prevent unsafe congestion of aircraft over events such as wildfires, sporting events, or air shows.

Context Anchor

Pilots encounter Temporary Flight Restrictions during preflight planning, flight briefings, and checks, especially near major events, wildfire , disaster zones, VIP movements, and space operations.