National security depends largely on the deterrent effect of our airborne military forces. To be proficient, the military services must train in a wide range of airborne tactics. One phase of this training involves "low level" combat tactics. The required maneuvers and high speeds are such that they may occasionally make the avoid aspect of flight more difficult without increased vigilance in areas containing such operations. In an effort to ensure the greatest practical level of safety for all flight operations, the Military Training Route (MTR) was conceived.
The MTR program is a joint venture by the FAA and the Department of Defense (DOD). MTRs are mutually developed for use by the military for the purpose of conducting low-altitude, high-speed training. The routes to be flown, to the maximum extent possible, under IFR. The routes at 1,500 feet AGL and below are generally flown under VFR.
Generally, MTRs are established below 10,000 feet MSL for operations at speeds in excess of 250 knots. However, route segments may be defined at higher altitudes for purposes of route continuity. For example, route segments may be defined for descent, climbout, and mountainous terrain. There are IFR and VFR routes as follows:
1. IFR Military Training Routes- (IR): Operations on these routes are conducted in accordance with IFR regardless of weather conditions.
2. VFR Military Training Routes- (VR): Operations on these routes are conducted in accordance with VFR except flight visibility shall be 5 miles or more, and flights shall not be conducted below a ceiling of less than 3,000 feet AGL.
Route Identification
Four number characters (e.g., IR1206, VR1207, etc) shall identify MTRs with no segment above 1,500 feet AGL. MTRs that include one or more segments above 1,500 AGL shall be identified by three number characters (e.g. IR206, VR207, etc.)
Alternate IR/VR routes or using the basic principal route designation followed by a letter suffix (e.g. IR008A, VR1257B, etc) identifies route segments
The above and additional information on airspace areas can be located in Chapter 3 Section 5 of the Aeronautical Information Manual.
For the times of Military Training Route activity, ask for the information during your preflight briefing, or contact an enroute flight service station.