Final Answer:
No person shall operate an aircraft in the airspace below 3,000 feet AGL within 3 NM of the limits of a forest fire area, or as described in a NOTAM.
Step-by-step explanation:
The regulations stipulate a minimum altitude of 3,000 feet Above Ground Level (AGL) within a 3 nautical mile (NM) radius of a forest fire area or as indicated in a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM).
This safety measure aims to prevent aircraft from interfering with firefighting operations and ensures the safety of both aerial firefighters and the aircraft themselves.
To calculate the distance, 1 nautical mile is equivalent to 6,076 feet. Therefore, within a 3 NM radius, the distance can be found by multiplying 3 (NM) by 6,076 feet, resulting in 18,228 feet. This means that aircraft must maintain a minimum altitude of 3,000 feet AGL within this specified distance from the perimeter of the forest fire area.
This altitude restriction serves to create a buffer zone around the fire area, allowing firefighting aircraft to operate safely without the risk of encountering other aircraft at lower altitudes. Pilots must adhere strictly to these regulations to ensure the effectiveness of firefighting efforts and to prevent potential hazards or disruptions in the firefighting operation. Adherence to such directives is crucial in maintaining aviation safety and supporting emergency response efforts during forest fires.