AIM ¶ 5-6-1 — National Security ATC
AIM 5-6-1 explains that national security in air traffic control is governed by 14 CFR Part 99. Study guide for pilot checkrides and written tests.
AIM 5-6-1 is a short but important pointer paragraph. It tells pilots that whenever national security issues intersect with air traffic control, the governing rules are found in 14 CFR Part 99 — Security Control of Air Traffic.
Why this matters operationally:
- Part 99 contains the regulatory requirements (unlike the AIM, which is informational) that pilots must follow when operating in security-sensitive airspace.
- Part 99 covers items such as ADIZ (Air Defense Identification Zone) procedures, DVFR (Defense VFR) flight plans, position reporting, and two-way radio requirements.
- Failure to comply can result in interception by military aircraft, certificate action, or other enforcement.
As a student pilot, the takeaway is simple: AIM 5-6-1 itself doesn't give you procedures — it directs you to 14 CFR Part 99 for the binding rules. Before any flight near an ADIZ, a border, or a security-sensitive area (such as the Washington, DC SFRA), review Part 99 and current NOTAMs. On a checkride, expect the DPE to test whether you know where to find the actual rules, not just the AIM reference.