FAR 103.19 — Prohibited and Restricted Areas
FAR 103.19 prohibits operating an ultralight vehicle in prohibited or restricted areas without permission from the using or controlling agency.
FAR 103.19 governs where you can fly an ultralight vehicle in relation to special use airspace. Specifically, it prohibits operating an ultralight inside a prohibited area or a restricted area unless you have permission from the appropriate agency.
The required permission depends on the type of airspace:
- Prohibited areas — flight is generally not allowed; you need permission from the using agency (the agency for whom the area was established).
- Restricted areas — these contain hazards to nonparticipating aircraft (such as artillery firing, aerial gunnery, or guided missiles). You need clearance from the controlling agency (typically ATC) or the using agency, as appropriate.
Why it matters: ultralights operate without transponders, radios, or ATC contact in most cases, so the pilot must verify airspace status before flight using current sectional charts and NOTAMs. Penetrating these areas without authorization can create real safety hazards — including exposure to live military activity — and exposes the operator to enforcement action.