What altitude factor defines the Minimum Safe Altitude (MSA)?

The Minimum Safe Altitude (MSA) is specifically defined as the minimum altitude established for safe obstacle clearance in a given area. This altitude ensures that aircraft can safely navigate without colliding with obstacles such as terrain, buildings, and other potential hazards.

MSA provides a buffer above the highest obstacles in the designated area plus an additional margin of safety, usually a specified number of feet. This means that pilots can rely on MSA to maintain a safe clearance above these obstacles, allowing for more secure navigation, especially during times of limited visibility or adverse weather conditions.

Understanding MSA is crucial for flight planning and safety, as it helps pilots identify the safest altitudes to maintain while operating in unfamiliar airspace or when flying under instrument flight rules (IFR).