UAV - Unpiloted Aerial Vehicle
Flight Crew Multiengine; Flight Crew Flight Instructor; Flight Crew Instrument; Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 45; Flight Crew Total 6500; Flight Crew Type 125
Communication Breakdown
Airspace Violation All Types
Air Traffic Control Issued Advisory / Alert; Flight Crew Exited Penetrated Airspace
Procedure
While on patrol; flying an Unmanned Aircraft (MQ-9) the pilot flying contacted Center and requested clearance into a Restricted Area. Center approved the clearance and the crew proceeded to fly into the airspace. While entering the airspace; the crew contacted Range Control and advised their intent. Range Control advised that the airspace was active and not under Center's control. Pilot flying proceeded to turn around and exit the airspace without further incidents.
ATC cleared a MQ-9 into restricted airspace believing it was under their control but the pilot was notified by Range Control after entry that the area was active so he exited immediately.