Temporary Flight Restrictions: Can You Fly Through a TFR?

A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is exactly what it sounds like: a short-term change to the rules in a slice of airspace. A TFR tightens the regulations and parameters for flying in that space, and for the time it is active, it effectively overrides the “normal” rules for that chunk of sky.

In today’s environment, TFRs are more dynamic than ever. VIP movements, space launches, stadium events, wildfires, and security concerns can all trigger fast-moving changes to the National Airspace System (NAS). For pilots, that raises some very practical questions:

• Can you fly through a TFR if you are talking to ATC?
• What actually happens if you accidentally clip the edge of one?
• How do you quickly check for TFRs when you are planning a flight on your iPad?
• Do the same rules apply to drones?

This guide breaks down the main types of TFRs, how to find them, when you can (and cannot) fly through them, and what to expect if you ever bust one.

Types of Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs)

The FAA uses TFRs whenever it needs to temporarily protect people or operations on the ground, or safeguard other air traffic. The authority for most TFRs comes from 14 CFR 91.137–91.145 and 14 CFR 99.7.

The eight main types of TFRs are:

• Disaster / Hazard Areas
• National Disaster Areas in the State of Hawaii
• Emergency Air Traffic Rules
• Presidential and Other Parties (VIP)
• Space Flight Operations
• Abnormally High Barometric Pressure Conditions
• Management of Aircraft Operations for Airshows & Major Sporting Events
• Special Security Instructions

Each category has slightly different rules, so the only way to know what is allowed is to read the actual NOTAM text for that TFR.

Disaster / Hazard Areas (91.137)

A disaster or hazard TFR is designed to keep non-participating aircraft out of the way of emergency responders and to protect people and property on the ground.

Typical triggers include:

• Wildfires
• Toxic chemical leaks or spills
• Volcanic eruptions
• Large accidents (train derailments, major crashes)
• Other significant disasters and hazards

Depending on the paragraph cited in 91.137, the TFR may be:

• Extremely restrictive (only aircraft directly involved in relief efforts are allowed), or
• More permissive, allowing certain flights such as accredited news media or transit traffic at higher altitudes.

In all cases, the goal is the same: prevent congestion and keep sightseeing aircraft out of the way of firefighting tankers, helicopters, and other relief aircraft.

Learn more in 14 CFR 91.137.

National Disaster Areas in the State of Hawaii (91.138)

This TFR type is specific to Hawaii. It is used to protect people and property in inhabited areas of Hawaii that are within a declared national disaster area.

It functions similarly to the disaster/hazard TFR, but the legal authority is separate because of Hawaii’s unique geography and risk profile.

Details are in 14 CFR 91.138.

Emergency Air Traffic Rules (91.139)

Emergency air traffic rules are used when the FAA cannot operate the normal ATC system safely and efficiently—essentially, when the system itself is in crisis.

The best-known example was after September 11, 2001, when all civil air traffic was grounded under emergency rules. While events on that scale are rare, 91.139 remains the “big red switch” the FAA can use to rapidly restrict or shut down operations in parts, or all, of the NAS.

See 14 CFR 91.139 for specifics.

Presidential and Other VIP TFRs (91.141)

VIP TFRs are the ones that most often surprise general aviation pilots. Under 14 CFR 91.141, the FAA can restrict flight operations near the President, Vice President, and certain other protected individuals.

In practice, a VIP TFR is usually built as:

• Inner core (typically 10 NM radius): No GA operations unless you’re specifically authorized (e.g., law enforcement, military, approved air carriers, or screened flights using gateway procedures).
• Outer ring (often out to 30 NM): Transit may be allowed, but usually requires:
  • An active VFR or IFR flight plan
  • A discrete transponder code
  • Continuous two-way communication with ATC
  • No flight training, loitering, or practice approaches

These TFRs move with the VIPs. For example, when the President is at a residence in Florida or New Jersey, or when the Vice President is visiting regional hubs in the Midwest, VIP TFRs can appear over airports that are normally very GA-friendly. The exact shape and allowed operations are always described in the FDC NOTAM for that TFR.

Bottom line: treat VIP TFRs as high-consequence airspace. Clipping one, even briefly, is a quick way to meet an F-16.

Space Flight Operations (91.143)

TFRs for space operations used to be rare and mostly associated with NASA launches out of Cape Canaveral. That era is over. Under 14 CFR 91.143, the FAA now routinely issues TFRs for both government and commercial launches.

Common hotspots include:

• Cape Canaveral / Kennedy Space Center (Florida) – traditional NASA and commercial launches.
• Boca Chica / “Starbase” (Texas) – large, polygon-shaped TFRs over the Gulf of Mexico for high-energy Starship launches and test flights.
• Vandenberg Space Force Base (California) – frequent polar-orbit satellite launches with TFRs extending offshore.

Key points about spaceflight TFRs:

• They often cover large, oddly shaped areas to account for debris dispersion if something goes wrong.
• Vertical limits typically run from the surface to “unlimited.”
• Entering one is not just a regulatory violation—it can be physically dangerous due to falling debris or toxic propellants.

When you see a 91.143 TFR on your EFB, give it very wide berth.

Abnormally High Barometric Pressure Conditions (91.144)

Aircraft altimeters are only designed to be set up to a certain barometric pressure. In rare cases, a very cold, dense high-pressure system can push surface pressure above that limit. When that happens, the FAA can issue a TFR under 14 CFR 91.144 to keep aircraft out of the affected area until conditions normalize.

Flying with an altimeter that cannot be set correctly is an obvious altitude-separation hazard, so treat 91.144 TFRs seriously even though they are uncommon.

Aerial Demonstrations & Major Sporting Events (91.145)

This type of TFR creates a safe “bubble” for airshows and certain high-attendance events.

Typical uses include:

• Major airshows (e.g., EAA AirVenture, Sun ’n Fun)
• Large sporting events such as the Super Bowl, Indy 500, World Series, and other championship games
• Occasional large parades or special events with aerial components

The TFR text will spell out the radius (often around 3–5 NM) and altitude (commonly up to 3,000 feet AGL, but it can vary).

Special Security Instructions (99.7)

Under 14 CFR 99.7, the FAA can issue flight restrictions to address national security concerns.

Security-driven TFRs and no-fly zones often cover:

• Military installations and test ranges
• Critical infrastructure and certain government facilities
• Major political events and conventions
• Restrictions on drones (UAS) over specific sensitive sites

These can be stand-alone TFRs or layered on top of other restrictions (for example, adding specific security instructions over a spaceflight or stadium TFR).

History of TFRs

Before 9/11, most TFRs were limited to safety events like wildfires and the occasional Presidential visit. After 9/11, security-related restrictions expanded significantly, including:

• More frequent VIP TFRs for presidential and vice-presidential movements
• Codified TFRs over certain large sporting events
• Increased use of security TFRs around high-value targets and special events
• Recent growth in TFRs for commercial space launches and complex disasters (large wildfires, industrial accidents)

The big takeaway: the modern NAS is dynamic. Airspace that was open in the morning can be restricted by afternoon due to a fast-moving VIP, a new wildfire, or a same-day launch window.

Is There Such a Thing as a Permanent TFR?

By definition, TFRs are temporary. If an area needs truly permanent protection, it is usually designated as a Prohibited (P-) or Restricted (R-) area on the sectional chart rather than relying on a TFR.

That said, a few security-related TFRs have NOTAM end times listed as “indefinite” and have been continuously renewed for years. The best-known examples are the 3-NM, 0–3,000’ AGL “no-fly” bubbles over Disney World (Orlando) and Disneyland (Anaheim).

Functionally, these feel permanent to pilots and drone operators, but the underlying legal mechanism is still a security TFR / special security instruction rather than a charted Prohibited Area.

How Do You Know Where the TFRs Are?

The good news: it has never been easier to see TFRs graphically. The bad news: you still need to read the text to understand what is actually allowed.

1. FAA TFR Graphic Page

The FAA’s official TFR site (tfr.faa.gov) shows current TFRs on a map. Clicking a TFR polygon gives you:

• The FDC NOTAM text
• Latitude/longitude or radius/center
• Effective and expiration times
• Vertical limits and controlling facility

2. NOTAM Search

Because TFRs are a type of NOTAM, you can also pull them via the FAA’s NOTAM search tools or through 1800wxbrief. Searching for FDC NOTAMs along your route is still part of a thorough briefing.

3. EFBs and Online Planning Tools

Most pilots today discover TFRs through their Electronic Flight Bag (EFB):

• ForeFlight, Garmin Pilot, etc. – show TFR rings and polygons overlaid on your route and can display future TFR activity based on scheduled times.
• Web planners like SkyVector – show current TFRs graphically as well.

Important: EFB data is great for situational awareness, but there can be latency. Always refresh data just before departure and use the underlying NOTAM text as the final authority.

4. Old-School Backup: Flight Service

Calling Flight Service (FSS) is still a valid way to confirm there are no new TFRs along your route, especially on days with high security or wildfire activity.

Can You Fly Through a TFR?

The answer is: sometimes—but only when the TFR specifically allows it and you meet all the conditions in the NOTAM.

1. Read the NOTAM Carefully

The TFR NOTAM will tell you:

• Why the restriction exists (e.g., “to provide a safe environment for fire fighting”).
• What type it is (“Hazards,” “VIP,” “Security,” etc.).
• What is prohibited (“no pilots may operate an aircraft in the areas covered by this NOTAM except as described”).
• Any exceptions (e.g., participating firefighting aircraft, law enforcement, properly accredited news media, or flights authorized by ATC).

If the NOTAM simply says “no pilots may operate… (except as described)” and no exception text follows, you must stay out. There is no “but I was talking to ATC” defense.

2. Inner vs. Outer Rings

VIP and security TFRs often have an inner and outer ring:

• Inner ring: Generally a complete no-fly zone, except for approved/government operations.
• Outer ring: Transit may be allowed if you:
  • Are on an active VFR or IFR flight plan
  • Squawk a discrete code
  • Maintain two-way radio contact with ATC
  • Do not loiter, practice maneuvers, or conduct pattern work

Think of the outer ring as “you can pass through if you behave like a professional IFR aircraft,” not as an invitation to sightsee.

3. “Unless Authorized by ATC”

Some TFR NOTAMs include language such as “unless authorized by ATC.” That does not mean you can simply call approach and ask for a shortcut because you do not feel like deviating. It usually exists so ATC can accommodate:

• Emergency or medevac flights
• Essential local operations (e.g., based aircraft departing via a narrow corridor)
• Specific missions that have been pre-coordinated

If you believe you have a legitimate operational need, you can ask—but be prepared for “unable.”

4. Flight Following Near a TFR

If your VFR route takes you near a TFR, requesting flight following is a smart move. While you are still responsible for staying clear, ATC will almost always warn you if your track is taking you toward the boundary.

What Happens If You Fly Into a TFR?

If you inadvertently fly into a TFR, you have committed a pilot deviation. What happens next depends on the type of TFR, your behavior, and whether the incursion appears accidental or intentional.

1. Interception & Immediate Actions

In sensitive areas—especially VIP and national defense airspace—violations can trigger a military or law-enforcement intercept. The Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM 5-6-2) lays out the standard intercept procedures.

If you suspect you have entered a TFR or are being intercepted:

• Maintain aircraft control. Do not maneuver aggressively.
• Tune 121.5 MHz (Guard) and monitor.
• Squawk 7700 unless ATC tells you otherwise.
• Follow instructions from ATC and any intercepting aircraft (rocking wings, heading changes, etc.).

Failure to comply will escalate the response and is viewed as a potential hostile act.

2. FAA Enforcement

On the regulatory side, the FAA can pursue:

• Certificate action – suspension or revocation of your pilot certificate.
• Civil penalties – fines that can reach into the tens of thousands of dollars per violation, especially for commercial operators.

You may also be invited for a “chat” with the local FSDO to discuss what happened. A cooperative attitude, prompt correction, and a clean record can make a big difference in how the case is handled.

3. Criminal Liability in National Defense Airspace

Knowingly and willfully violating certain national defense airspace—such as the inner ring of a Presidential TFR or the Washington, D.C. FRZ—can trigger criminal penalties under 49 U.S.C. 46307, including fines and up to one year in prison.

That is the worst-case scenario, typically reserved for obvious, intentional violations or situations where a pilot refuses to comply with intercept instructions. But it drives home the point: some TFRs are treated like a brick wall in the sky.

Can You Fly a Drone in a TFR?

Many TFR rules apply to both crewed aircraft and drones (UAS), and in some cases, the restrictions are even stricter for drones.

1. TFRs Apply to Drones Too

VIP, security, stadium, and Disney-type restrictions almost always prohibit drone operations unless you are part of an approved government or public-safety mission. That includes:

• 3-NM / 3,000’ AGL stadium TFRs for major sporting events (NFL, MLB, NCAA Division I football, NASCAR, etc.).
• Disney World and Disneyland “no-fly” zones.
• Security TFRs over certain military installations and critical infrastructure.

2. LAANC Does Not Override a TFR

LAANC (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability) only authorizes you to fly in controlled airspace with respect to ATC separation. It does not authorize you to violate a TFR.

If a TFR is active over an area, the TFR rules win—period. Even if your app says “LAANC Approved,” you still must obey the TFR.

3. Check With FAA-Approved Apps

Before launching, drone pilots should:

• Use the FAA’s B4UFLY or FAA-recognized service provider apps to check for TFRs, controlled airspace, and local restrictions.
• Zoom in on stadiums, theme parks, or downtown cores where security restrictions are common.

Remote ID has made it much easier for law enforcement to track drones near sensitive sites, and enforcement activity has increased accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is a TFR in simple terms?
  A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is a short-term “do not enter” or “enter only under these conditions” overlay on top of normal airspace. It is published as an FDC NOTAM and always has a start time, an end time, and specific rules.
• Is a TFR the same as restricted or prohibited airspace?
  No. Restricted (R-xxx) and Prohibited (P-xxx) areas are charted and relatively permanent. TFRs are temporary and published via NOTAM. Some long-running security TFRs (like Disney) feel permanent in practice, but they are still managed as TFRs.
• Can I fly VFR through the outer ring of a VIP TFR?
  Sometimes. Many VIP TFRs allow VFR transit in the outer ring if you are on an active flight plan, squawking a discrete code, in two-way communication with ATC, and not loitering or training. Always read the specific NOTAM—there is no generic blanket rule.
• Do I still need to call Flight Service if I use ForeFlight or Garmin Pilot?
  Not always, but it is a good backup on complex or high-risk days (VIP visits, major wildfires, big game days). EFBs pull NOTAM data from the FAA, but latency and stale cached data are always a possibility. A quick call can catch last-minute changes.
• What should I do immediately if I realize I’m inside a TFR?
  Fly the airplane first. Then: contact ATC, confess plainly, follow instructions, and comply with any intercept procedures. Do not try to “sneak out” silently. Owning the mistake early is almost always better for both safety and enforcement.
• Can a TFR appear after I’m already airborne?
  Yes. VIP movements, emergency situations, and launch windows can all generate TFRs while you are en route. Monitoring 121.5 MHz and using in-flight weather/NOTAM updates (via ADS-B or satcom) helps you catch those changes.

Takeaways

TFRs are not just bureaucratic noise—they are there to protect firefighting crews, mass gatherings, space launches, VIPs, and national security operations. For you as PIC, the keys are:

• Always brief TFRs as part of your preflight.
• Use multiple sources (FAA TFR page, NOTAM search, EFB, and—when in doubt—Flight Service).
• Read the actual NOTAM text to see if transit is allowed and under what conditions.
• Treat VIP and security TFRs as hard walls unless you are clearly authorized to enter.
• For drones, assume “no” inside a TFR unless you are part of an approved operation.

Respect the boundaries, stay ahead of the NOTAMs, and you will never have to find out what an intercept looks like from the left seat.

Want a quick refresher on the other categories of airspace?

• Class A Airspace: and How it Differs from All Other Categories of Airspace
• Class B Airspace: Who Can Enter and How to Get Permission
• Class C Airspace: All the Details You Need to Know
• Class D Airspace: Everything You Need to Know
• Class E Airspace: The Logic Behind It (Guide)
• Class G Airspace: Everything You Need to Know
• Restricted Airspace: What You Should Know