AIM ¶ 5-6-16 — Visual Warning System
AIM 5-6-16 explains the DC SFRA Visual Warning System: alternating red/green laser signals, required pilot actions, and ATC contact procedures.
In Plain English
The Visual Warning System (VWS) is used near the Washington, DC Special Flight Rules Area (DC SFRA) to alert pilots that their aircraft may be operating in violation of SFRA rules or on a flight path interpreted as a threat. The signal is an alternating red and green laser directed at the suspect aircraft. The beam is safe for pilots, passengers, and aircraft systems at any altitude or distance.
If you see the VWS signal directed at your aircraft:
- If already in contact with ATC: Advise ATC immediately that you are being illuminated by a VWS.
- If not in contact with ATC: Turn to the most direct heading away from the center of the DC SFRA as soon as possible, then contact ATC on an appropriate frequency or VHF Guard 121.5 / UHF Guard 243.0. Provide your aircraft ID, position, and nature of flight.
Failure to comply may result in interception by military aircraft, and continued noncompliance can result in the use of force. Pilots flying near the DC SFRA should review aircraft intercept procedures before flight. This applies to all aircraft, including DoD, law enforcement, and aeromedical flights.
AIM Source Text
FAA AIM ¶ 5-6-165-6-16. 5-6-16. Visual Warning System (VWS)
The VWS signal consists of highly-focused red and green colored laser lights designed to illuminate in an alternating red and green signal pattern. These lasers may be directed at specific aircraft suspected of making unauthorized entry into the Washington, DC Special Flight Rules Area (DC SFRA) proceeding on a heading or flight path that may be interpreted as a threat or that operate contrary to the operating rules for the DC SFRA. The beam is neither hazardous to the eyes of pilots/aircrew or passengers, regardless of altitude or distance from the source nor will the beam affect aircraft systems. If you are communicating with ATC, and this signal is directed at your aircraft, you are required to contact ATC and advise that you are being illuminated by a visual warning system. If this signal is directed at you, and you are not communicating with ATC, you are advised to turn to the most direct heading away from the center of the DC SFRA as soon as possible. Immediately contact ATC on an appropriate frequency, VHF Guard 121.5 or UHF Guard 243.0, and provide your aircraft identification, position, and nature of the flight. Failure to follow these procedures may result in interception by military aircraft. Further noncompliance with interceptor aircraft or ATC may result in the use of force. Pilots planning to operate aircraft in or near the DC SFRA are to familiarize themselves with aircraft intercept procedures. This information applies to all aircraft operating within the DC SFRA including DoD, Law Enforcement, and aircraft engaged in aeromedical operations and does not change procedures established for reporting unauthorized laser illumination as published in FAA Advisory Circulars and Notices. REFERENCE- CFR 91.161. More details including a video demonstration of the VWS are available from the following FAA website: www.faasafety.gov/VisualWarningSystem/VisualWarning.htm . Previous | Top | Next AIM | ATPUBS | FAA | Send your comments regarding this website.
Oral Exam Questions a DPE Might Ask
Q1What does the Visual Warning System (VWS) signal look like, and where is it used?
Per AIM 5-6-16, the VWS uses highly-focused red and green laser lights that illuminate in an alternating red/green pattern, directed at aircraft suspected of unauthorized entry into the Washington, DC Special Flight Rules Area (DC SFRA) or operating contrary to its rules.
Q2If the VWS is directed at your aircraft and you are not in contact with ATC, what should you do?
Per AIM 5-6-16, turn to the most direct heading away from the center of the DC SFRA as soon as possible, then immediately contact ATC on an appropriate frequency or VHF Guard 121.5 / UHF Guard 243.0, providing your aircraft identification, position, and nature of flight.
Q3Is the VWS laser beam hazardous to pilots, passengers, or aircraft systems, and what happens if you fail to comply?
Per AIM 5-6-16, the beam is not hazardous to eyes regardless of altitude or distance and will not affect aircraft systems. However, failure to follow VWS procedures may result in interception by military aircraft, and further noncompliance with interceptors or ATC may result in the use of force.
Related Paragraphs in AIM Chapter 5