Squawk_5543

Be aware the P49 TFR extension at Waco goes into effect from 4/5 thru 4/9. Careful where you fly !!!

http://tfr.faa.gov/save_pages/notam_print_7_7058.html

multipilot

If you have a second radio you're not using, I strongly suggest monitoring 121.5. I've heard several pilots, not just crop dusters and private pilots but guys who fly for NetJets and so on, bust this TFR and get violated. I've even heard the Air Force threaten one pilot that if they did not comply they would be "fired upon."

If you're based inside the TFR, the best way to get outside of the TFR is file two IFR flight plans

(1.) from your airport in the TFR to an airport outside the TFR

(2.) from an airport outside the TFR back to your home airport.

Once clear of the TFR and in VFR conditions you can cancel IFR flight plan #1 and do your normal training routine outside of the TFR. Then just pick up your #2 IFR flight plan back to your home airport. It's a whole lot easier than filing VFR because you have to be on an active flight plan before entering the TFR, i.e. before you takeoff inside the TFR. On an IFR flight plan, if you're departing a towered airport, tower will activate it and close it for you.

It's a pain in the butt to convince FSS to activate your VFR flight plan on an assumed departure as you're talking to him on your cell phone (usually too low to pick them up on frequency from the ground), inside an idling airplane, and holding short number one for the runway. FSS even lost my VFR flight plan one time. In addition to all that, you also have to have a discrete squawk code and be in constant contact with approach.

I recently talked to a controller at Waco who said that they have at least 4 or more pilots bust the expanded prohibited area and TFR each day it is in effect.

Squawk_5543

Really? I didn't know that. Man I watch that TFR list like nothing else. Sure don't want one of those on my record.