Aircraft inbound to KSTF, KTUP, KGTR, KCBM, and KUBS that conflict with MEI 1 West MOA/ATCAA must be routed around which side of the restricted area?

• A. Around the southern side of the restricted area
• B. Directly over the restricted area
• C. Overhead the restricted area
• D. Around the northern side of the restricted area

Answer: (D)

When an inbound route conflicts with a MOA/ATCAA, you must stay outside the restricted airspace and detour on the side that keeps you clear of it. For these airports, the MEI 1 West MOA/ATCAA sits to the south, so the safe and proper routing is to pass around the northern edge of the restricted area. This avoids entering the MOA, even if it means a slight deviation from the most direct path. Going around the southern side or flying over/through the area would risk intrusion into active airspace, which is not permitted. The northern detour provides the necessary clearance while allowing a stable inbound flow to those airports.