FAA Military Competency Practice Exam

What is the altitude requirement for VFR cruising altitudes when flying above a certain level?

1. Above 2,500 feet AGL, based on magnetic course

2. More than 3,000 feet AGL, based on magnetic course

3. Over 5,000 feet AGL, based on wind direction

4. Only above 10,000 feet AGL, based on radar guidance

The correct answer is: More than 3,000 feet AGL, based on magnetic course

The altitude requirement for VFR (Visual Flight Rules) cruising altitudes mandates that pilots maintain specific altitudes based on their magnetic course when flying above certain thresholds for safety and to avoid conflicts with IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) traffic. When flying above 3,000 feet AGL (Above Ground Level) and up to 18,000 feet MSL (Mean Sea Level), the standard cruising altitude rules apply, which are defined by the magnetic course to ensure that aircraft are properly separated. For example, for magnetic courses between 0° and 179°, pilots should fly at odd thousands plus 500 feet (e.g., 3,500, 5,500, etc.), while for courses between 180° and 359°, even thousands plus 500 feet (e.g., 4,500, 6,500, etc.) are used. This method of altitude assignment is crucial for promoting safety in busy airspaces, where both VFR and IFR traffic may be present. Pilots must remember these rules to ensure they are flying at the appropriate levels to reduce the risk of mid-air collisions while considering the type of air traffic operating within the airspace.