Danger Area

A danger area is airspace of defined dimensions within which activities dangerous to the flight of aircraft may exist at specified times. Unlike restricted areas (where flight may be prohibited), danger areas are advisory — pilots may enter them at their own risk, but should exercise extreme caution and ideally obtain information on active periods before doing so.

Canadian Danger Areas

Danger areas in Canada are depicted on VFR charts with the designation “CYD” followed by a number. Typical activities that generate danger areas include: artillery and weapons ranges, parachute drop zones, hang glider and glider activity areas, and aerial gunnery ranges. Active periods and controlling authority are published in the CFS and in the appropriate NOTAMs.

Before Entering a Danger Area

• Check the CFS for active times and the responsible authority
• Check NOTAMs for the applicable NOTAM series for that area
• Contact the controlling authority by radio or phone if uncertain
• Assess whether the activity constitutes a genuine hazard for your aircraft type

Related Terms

See also: Restricted Area, NOTAM, Classification of Airspace.