FAA Issues Flight Restriction Ahead of Presidential Inauguration

The FAA has issued temporary flight restrictions that will be in effect for Donald Trump's inauguration next week, with security measures in effect from January 19 to 21.

Throughout the inauguration and events surrounding it, the FAA will modify the Washington Special Flight Rules Area (SFRA) and Washington Metropolitan Flight Restricted Zone (FRZ). Procedures that are normally permitted in the area’s GA airports will be suspended as well.

According to the FAA’s flight advisory, the Washington SFRA and FRZ will be modified for the January 20 inauguration, with additional restrictions in place from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. The FAA will also modify restrictions on January 19 from 1:30 to 6:30 p.m., and January 21 from 9 a.m. to noon.

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association reports that an estimated 800 to 1,100 general aviation aircraft will travel to Washington, D.C., for the inauguration, and urges pilots to check notams frequently, as they can change on short notice.