Between mountainous and non-mountainous areas, which requires the higher minimum obstacle clearance?

Between mountainous and non-mountainous areas, which requires the higher minimum obstacle clearance?

• A. Mountainous areas
• B. Non-mountainous areas
• C. Both equal
• D. No standard

Answer: (A)

When you think about obstacle clearance, you’re protecting a buffer above the highest obstacle in the area. Mountainous regions have much higher terrain and tall ridges, so the highest obstacle to clear is well above what you’d find in flat areas. To ensure a safe margin above those obstacles, the required minimum altitude is raised in mountainous areas. In flat, non-mountainous regions the terrain and obstacles are generally lower, so the safe minimum altitude can be lower. So, mountainous areas require higher minimum obstacle clearance.

When you think about obstacle clearance, you’re protecting a buffer above the highest obstacle in the area. Mountainous regions have much higher terrain and tall ridges, so the highest obstacle to clear is well above what you’d find in flat areas. To ensure a safe margin above those obstacles, the required minimum altitude is raised in mountainous areas. In flat, non-mountainous regions the terrain and obstacles are generally lower, so the safe minimum altitude can be lower. So, mountainous areas require higher minimum obstacle clearance.