Federal Aviation Regulations Practice Test

What is the minimum safe altitude for operating an aircraft over congested areas?

1. 500 feet above the highest obstacle

2. 1,000 feet above the highest obstacle within a 2,000-foot radius

3. 1,500 feet above the highest obstacle within a 3,000-foot radius

4. 2,000 feet above the highest obstacle

The correct answer is: 1,000 feet above the highest obstacle within a 2,000-foot radius

The minimum safe altitude for operating an aircraft over congested areas is established as 1,000 feet above the highest obstacle within a horizontal radius of 2,000 feet from the aircraft. This regulation is put in place to ensure adequate separation from potential hazards, such as buildings and trees, which are more prevalent in urban environments, thereby enhancing safety for both the aircraft and individuals on the ground. This altitude provides a buffer zone that allows for safe maneuverability and serves as a safeguard against emergencies that may require a sudden descent or deviation from the flight path. The 1,000-foot rule is a recognized standard that applies to flight operations in areas where people are concentrated, effectively minimizing risks associated with engine failure or other in-flight emergencies. Other altitude requirements mentioned in the choices do not apply to congested areas. For example, operating just 500 feet above the highest obstacle would not provide sufficient safety margin, especially in densely populated areas, and higher altitudes like 1,500 or 2,000 feet might be overly conservative for some operations but do not specifically meet the requirement for congested areas as outlined in the regulations.