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Alert Areas

AIM ¶ 3-4-6 — Alert Areas

AIM 3-4-6: Alert Areas on aeronautical charts warn of high-volume pilot training or unusual aerial activity. Study tips for written tests and checkrides.

In Plain English

Alert Areas are a type of Special Use Airspace depicted on aeronautical charts to warn nonparticipating pilots about regions that may contain:

  • A high volume of pilot training, or
  • An unusual type of aerial activity

Unlike Restricted or Prohibited Areas, entry into an Alert Area is not restricted — you don't need permission to fly through one. However, you should be especially vigilant when transiting these areas because the activity inside can be intense or unpredictable.

Key points to remember for your checkride:

  • All activity inside an Alert Area must be conducted in accordance with the CFRs, without waiver.
  • Both participating pilots and transiting pilots are equally responsible for collision avoidance.
  • Increased visual scanning and traffic awareness are essential when flying in or near these areas.

Operationally, this means if you see an Alert Area on your sectional, plan ahead — be ready for student pilots practicing maneuvers, formation flights, or other concentrated activity, and keep your head on a swivel.

AIM Source Text
FAA AIM ¶ 3-4-6
3-4-6. 3-4-6. Alert Areas Alert areas are depicted on aeronautical charts to inform nonparticipating pilots of areas that may contain a high volume of pilot training or an unusual type of aerial activity. Pilots should be particularly alert when flying in these areas. All activity within an alert area must be conducted in accordance with CFRs, without waiver, and pilots of participating aircraft as well as pilots transiting the area must be equally responsible for collision avoidance.
Oral Exam Questions a DPE Might Ask
Q1What is an Alert Area and why is it depicted on aeronautical charts?
Per AIM 3-4-6, Alert Areas are depicted on aeronautical charts to inform nonparticipating pilots of areas that may contain a high volume of pilot training or an unusual type of aerial activity. Pilots should be particularly alert when flying in these areas.
Q2Who is responsible for collision avoidance in an Alert Area?
Per AIM 3-4-6, pilots of participating aircraft as well as pilots transiting the area are equally responsible for collision avoidance.
Q3Are there any waivers or special rules for activity conducted within an Alert Area?
No. Per AIM 3-4-6, all activity within an Alert Area must be conducted in accordance with the CFRs, without waiver.
Related Paragraphs in AIM Chapter 3
3-4-1
Special Use Airspace
3-4-2
Prohibited Areas
3-4-3
Restricted Areas
3-4-4
Warning Areas
3-4-5
Military Operations Areas
3-4-7
Controlled Firing Areas
3-4-8
National Security Areas
3-4-9
Special Use Airspace Status
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AIM 3-4-6 — Alert Areas