Flight Crew Private
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 30; Flight Crew Total 120; Flight Crew Type 120
Confusion; Communication Breakdown
ATC Issue All Types; Airspace Violation All Types; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural FAR; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Published Material / Policy
Air Traffic Control Issued Advisory / Alert; Flight Crew Requested ATC Assistance / Clarification
Human Factors; Procedure
I was approaching the DC SFRA on approach to Leesburg. I had a discreet squawk code for my VFR flight plan from ZZZ to JYO. I approached the SFRA from the south and was instructed 'proceed on course under own navigation; and squawk XYYZ. I was also instructed to contact Leesburg Tower and depart the TRACON frequency. A few minutes later I heard calls on guard that an aircraft was violating the SFRA/Restricted airspace. I was in contact with Tower at this point and asked Tower if they were referring to me. I believe there was a lack of clarity in the procedures for the SFRA and the communications from the controllers to me. Also; as a new pilot; this is a difficult area to fly in because of the SFRA and it is fairly easy to get a pilot deviation because of it. Controller instructed me to proceed on course. This was confusing - am I cleared to enter SFRA? I have a flight plan on file showing destination Leesburg; I am squawking the appropriate code and am in communication with ATC and Tower at Leesburg. Is this a violation of the SFRA? All along that sector; there is a 1;500 FT obstacle to exit the SFRA if you are on the eastern side. You have to violate Bravo airspace to leave the SFRA in that zone.
GA pilot reported a possible airspace violation in the DC SFRA area due to confusion and miscommunication.