Exercise Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2026 takes place in/around the Hawaiian Islands, June 24- July 31, 2026. The thirty one (31) nation (a record number) exercise features over 140 aircraft, 40 surface ships, and 5 submarines, requiring strict airspace management & hazard avoidance.
Exercise Areas / Airspace Cautions: For civilian aviation, military operations and warning areas south and west of the islands are subject to major constraints. Pilots should carefully review all active NOTAMS to avoid RIMPAC restricted areas.
Altitude and Time Restrictions: High-altitude restricted airspace (surface to FL600) typically activates daily between 07:00 and 22:00 HST.
24/7 Hot Zones: Certain designated airspace sectors (e.g., MILU East, MELA South, and W-192/W-193/W-194 warning areas south of O?ahu) remain active around the clock.
Low-Level Activity: Outside of scheduled peak times, military flying operations may continue at or below 12,000 feet MSL.
Live-Fire Hazard: High-risk zones, such as live-fire and sinking exercise (SINKEX) areas, are strictly off-limits and typically occur in deep waters 50+ nautical miles offshore.
POC: John Wennes TMO; Honolulu Control Facility Email: [email protected] Phone:808-840-6161