Silly Season

Unless you’ve been out flying the last few months, you’re probably aware 2012 is a presidential election year in the U.S. Take away all the posturing, the debates and the incessant television ads, and the average GA pilot is left with...temporary flight restrictions, or TFRs. The fun begins in earnest about the time you read this, with the GOP convention in Tampa, Fla., followed quickly by the Democrats’ confab in Charlotte, N.C. Even if you don’t live near one of those areas, an election-related TFR can pop up near you just about any time. What’s a pilot to do?

Joseph E. (Jeb) Burnside

Thursday, August 23, 2012 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

Presidential election years significantly increase Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) for general aviation pilots, which can appear anywhere.
Pilots are strictly required to check NOTAMs before every flight and fully comply with all TFR provisions.
Non-compliance with TFRs can lead to severe consequences, including interception, detention, civil/criminal charges, certificate revocation, and even deadly force.
Adhering to TFRs is crucial to maintain personal safety, avoid legal penalties, and protect the public perception of general aviation.

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Unless you’ve been out flying the last few months, you’re probably aware 2012 is a presidential election year in the U.S. Take away all the posturing, the debates and the incessant television ads, and the average GA pilot is left with…temporary flight restrictions, or TFRs. The fun begins in earnest about the time you read this, with the GOP convention in Tampa, Fla., followed quickly by the Democrats’ confab in Charlotte, N.C. Even if you don’t live near one of those areas, an election-related TFR can pop up near you just about any time. What’s a pilot to do?