VIP movement triggers FAA flight restriction over Charlottesville, VA

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The Federal Aviation Administration has issued an urgent notice to pilots regarding a Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) scheduled for April 10 in Charlottesville, Va. The airspace restriction, which is expected to support a high-level VIP movement and Secret Service security protocols, will be in effect from 5:15 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. EDT.

The TFR establishes two distinct zones of restricted flight, and authorities are urging all pilots to exercise caution and comply fully with the FAA guidelines.

Restricted Area Around CHO

Flight activity is strictly prohibited for “general aviation” within a 10-nautical-mile radius of Charlottesville-Albermarle Airport (CHO) and south of the City of Charlottesville. Access is restricted exclusively to approved law enforcement, military aircraft supporting the Office of the President, authorized air ambulance flights, and regularly scheduled commercial passenger and cargo airlines operating under TSA-approved programs. Emergency and life-saving flights must coordinate directly with Air Traffic Control (ATC) to ensure safe, expedited passage.

In addition, transit flights within a 30-nautical-mile radius of CHO and south of Charlottesville may be permitted at ATC's discretion, but pilots are strictly prohibited from loitering in the area.

Two MV-22 tiltrotor Osprey aircraft were spotted parked on the ramp at CHO on Wednesday. These aircraft, operated by Marine Helicopter Squadron One, serve as critical support for presidential missions, transporting White House staff, Secret Service agents, reporters, and other government officials.

The two MV-22 aircraft were later spotted orbiting over Charlottesville, followed by two low-flying presidential airlift VH-3D helicopters.

Prohibited Activities and Drone Enforcement

Across the entire TFR area, a wide range of general aviation activities is suspended. Prohibitions include, but are not limited to, flight training, aerobatics, glider operations, parachute jumps, sightseeing, crop dusting, and the operation of model aircraft or drones.

Operators of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (drones) are warned that unauthorized entry into this airspace is a serious offense. Government entities reserve the right to interfere with, seize, or destroy any drone deemed to pose a security threat.

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