Minimum Altitudes

NAV Canada Aviation Basics Course

MOCA

Altitude ASL between fixes that meets the IFR obstacle clearance requirements.

MEA

Altitude ASL between fixes that allows reception signal from a NAVAID and provides clearance.

MSA

Lowest altitude that provides a minimum clearance of 1000 ft under standard pressure above all objects in a 25 NM radius.

MVA

Lowest altitude for vectoring AC that meets obstacle clearance and radio coverage requirements.

Published in the Unit Operations Manual (UOM).

Safe Altitude 100 NM

Lowest altitude that provides 1000 ft clearance (or 2000 ft in mountains) above all obstacles within 100 NM of an aerodrome, under standard pressure and temperature.

AMA

Lowest altitude that provides 1000 ft clearance (or 2000 ft in mountains) above all obstacles in a specific area. Used under IMC and standard temperature and pressure.

Transition Altitude

Highest altitude at which the vertical position of the AC is expressed in feet, before flight level.

MRA

Lowest altitude ASL at which acceptable navigational signal coverage is received.

SIDs

3D IFR route to help AC transition from departure to enroute. Published in the CAP for pilot and controller use. May be pilot navigation or vector.

STARs

3D IFR route to help AC transition from enroute to landing. Published in the CAP.

RVSM

Reduces separation in FL290 to 410 from 2000 ft to 1000 ft. After FL410, separation increases to 2000 ft.