What must a DC SFRA flight plan for a VFR flight include when entering the SFRA?

When flying VFR into the Washington D.C. Special Flight Rules Area (SFRA), it is crucial to follow established procedures, which include using a designated gate as the departure point. This requirement helps manage air traffic and maintain security within the SFRA, as these designated gates are strategically located to funnel traffic through specific routes that are monitored by air traffic control.

Using a designated gate ensures that pilots are entering the SFRA in a manner that is consistent with the regulations in place, enhancing safety and efficiency for all flights in the area. This process also facilitates better communication and coordination with ATC, helping them manage aircraft movements effectively in a congested airspace.

Other options, while they may relate to aspects of aviation operations or safety, do not align with the specific requirements for entering the SFRA. For instance, notifying ATC ahead of time is certainly an important part of flying near restricted airspaces, but the requirement to use a designated gate directly addresses the entry protocol specific to the SFRA. This is why knowing and adhering to the requirement of starting from a designated gate is fundamental for pilots operating in this regulated airspace.