Altitudes

Question 1

Low altitude victor airways are for use up to what altitude?

Answer 1

Up to but not including FL180

Question 2

What is the DA/H?

Answer 2

• The decision altitude/height

Question 3

The MOCA guarantees what for a pilot?

Answer 3

• Minimum obstruction clearance altitude
• Provides navigational coverage (full route) and obstacle clearance within 22 NM (25 SM) of the NAVAID

Question 4

What is the VDP?

Answer 4

• It’s the visual descent point
• A defined point on the final approach course of a non-precision straight in approach procedure from which normal descent from the MDA to the runway touchdown point may be provided adequate visual reference is established

Question 5

When can you descend below MDA/DA?

Answer 5

When all 3 of these conditions are met:

1. The plan is continuously in a position from which a descent to a landing on the intended RWY can be made at a normal rate of descent
2. The flight visibility is not less than the visibility prescribed in the standard instrument approach being used
3. At least one of the following visual references for the intended RWY is distinctly visible and identifiable:
   - ALS, except you may only descend below 100’ below the TZ only if the red terminating bard or red side row bars are also visible and identifiable
   - Threshold
   - Threshold markings
   - Threshold lights
   - Runway End Identifier Lights (REIL)
   - Visual approach slope indicator
   - Touchdown zone or markings
   - Touchdown zone lights
   - Runway or runway markings
   - Runway lights

Question 6

What are IFR cruising altitude minimums?

Answer 6

• 0° to 179° ODD thousands
• 180° to 359° EVEN thousands

This is according to magnetic track

Question 7

How high is the minimum above obstacles for circling approaches, and how what’s the minimum a pilot can descend to during circling approaches?

Answer 7

• 300’ obstacle clearance
• Pilot must remain at or above the circling altitude until the a/c is continuously in a position to land