Prohibited Area

A Prohibited Area is a defined volume of airspace within which all flight is permanently prohibited. Prohibited areas are established for national security or other critical reasons, and there are no circumstances under which a civilian aircraft may enter without specific government authorization.

Examples of prohibited areas include:

• P-56: The White House and Capitol Building in Washington, D.C.
• P-40: Camp David, Maryland
• Nuclear facilities and military installations in various countries
• Areas over heads of state residences worldwide

Prohibited areas are published on aeronautical charts and in the AIP (Aeronautical Information Publication) with the prefix "P" followed by a number. They differ from Restricted Areas (which may be entered with ATC clearance or when not active) and Danger Areas (which pose a risk but are not necessarily prohibited).

Entering a prohibited area without authorization can result in interception by military aircraft, forced landing, prosecution, and certificate action against the pilot.