What is the recommended action to ensure civilian aircraft are not endangered during an artillery exercise?

Coordinating the exercise with Range Control and aviation authorities is the most effective method to ensure the safety of civilian aircraft during an artillery exercise. This collaboration establishes a clear plan for the use of airspace and ensures that all relevant parties, including the appropriate civilian aviation governing bodies, are informed and involved in the scheduling and management of the exercise. It allows for the issuance of Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFR) if necessary, which helps prevent civilian aircraft from entering the affected airspace.

This approach not only enhances safety by providing official communication and potential airspace management but also promotes situational awareness among all parties. Ground personnel and local newspapers can provide additional layers of safety, but without official coordination, there is a risk that those measures may not be adequately communicated or may not fully address the complexities of airspace management. Conducting exercises at night, while it might reduce civilian air traffic, is not a comprehensive solution since it does not actively manage airspace or coordinate safety measures effectively.