What characterizes a Controlled Firing Area (CFA)?

A Controlled Firing Area (CFA) is specifically designed to ensure the safety of nearby air traffic while allowing for hazardous activities to take place within that designated airspace. The defining characteristic of a CFA is that, although activities may pose risks, they are closely monitored and coordinated so they only affect nonparticipating aircraft when the area is active. When the operations are underway, typically, the responsible authority will ensure that other aircraft are either diverted or made aware of the hazards, thereby minimizing any risk to non-participating aircraft.

This answer highlights the operational intent behind CFAs, which is to maintain safety during potentially dangerous activities. It distinguishes CFAs from other types of airspace or closures, as the primary focus is managing the risk to nonparticipants rather than completely prohibiting access or signaling that the area is perpetually hazardous.