As the nation’s political season approaches with a fury, so do new, larger and more prevalent temporary flight restrictions (TFRs). As President Bush and presumptive Democratic nominee John Kerry hit the road, TFRs will follow them everywhere they go — kind of like a homing beacon. And now, according to the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), comes the “dumbbell” TFR: two circular areas connected by a narrower corridor. Even though the FAA’s TFR Web site isn’t even close to being up to the task of plotting these in real time, you’re still expected to avoid them. Meanwhile, AOPA says the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) has asked it to remind pilots that they must be alert for TFRs and possible interceptions. Said NORAD, “Non-compliance may result in the use of force.” You’ve been warned.
TSA Watch: AOPA And The “Dumbbell” TFR
Key Takeaways:
- The upcoming political season is expected to bring a surge in temporary flight restrictions (TFRs), including a new "dumbbell" shape.
- Pilots are expected to avoid these TFRs even though the FAA's website is not capable of plotting them in real-time.
- NORAD has issued a warning reminding pilots to be alert for TFRs, stating that non-compliance "may result in the use of force."
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