Which statement best describes a prohibited area?

Which statement best describes a prohibited area?

• A. An area where operations require authorization from the using agency
• B. An area where operations are restricted during certain hours
• C. An area where operations require pilot-initiated clearance
• D. No person may operate an aircraft without the permission of the using agency

Answer: (D)

Prohibited airspace is active, off-limits airspace defined by the government where flight is not allowed unless explicit permission is granted. The defining rule is that no person may operate an aircraft there without government authorization. This makes it more restrictive than other special-use areas, which may permit entry under certain conditions or with clearance. Why this fits best: it captures the essential idea that entry is not permitted by default and requires a formal clearance from the appropriate authority. The other statements describe areas where access is conditional—through authorization from a particular agency, during certain hours, or via pilot-initiated clearance—which are characteristic of restricted or other special-use airspaces, not a prohibited area.

Prohibited airspace is active, off-limits airspace defined by the government where flight is not allowed unless explicit permission is granted. The defining rule is that no person may operate an aircraft there without government authorization. This makes it more restrictive than other special-use areas, which may permit entry under certain conditions or with clearance.

Why this fits best: it captures the essential idea that entry is not permitted by default and requires a formal clearance from the appropriate authority. The other statements describe areas where access is conditional—through authorization from a particular agency, during certain hours, or via pilot-initiated clearance—which are characteristic of restricted or other special-use airspaces, not a prohibited area.