What is the minimum altitude to be flown above the highest obstacle in a quirky area?

The minimum altitude to be maintained above the highest obstacle in a mountainous area is 2000 feet. This requirement is crucial for ensuring safety during instrument flight, especially in terrain that is characterized by high hills and mountains. The standard altitude provides an adequate buffer to account for any variations in the terrain and minimizes the risk of obstruction during flight.

This requirement is particularly important in areas where obstacles can vary dramatically over short distances, making it essential to maintain a greater altitude to ensure safety and avoid potential collisions. The 2000-foot guideline allows pilots to have additional vertical space to maneuver if necessary and to account for any unexpected variations in that terrain.

In comparison, 1500 feet and 1000 feet may not provide sufficient clearance in regions where obstacles can rise quickly and unexpectedly. 3000 feet would be excessively conservative for most situations outside of particularly hazardous areas. Therefore, the requirement to be 2000 feet above the highest obstacle balances safety with operational practicality in mountainous regions.