What altitude does MEA guarantee?

MEA, or Minimum Enroute Altitude, is established to ensure a safe altitude for aircraft navigating through controlled airspace. It guarantees two primary components: obstacle clearance and access to adequate navigation signals.

The altitude indicated as MEA provides a specific height that ensures the aircraft is flying above all obstacles within a defined area. This is crucial for safety, especially in mountainous terrain or areas with significant ground obstructions. Additionally, by maintaining the required MEA, pilots can count on reliable navigation signals, which are essential for accurate course tracking and ensuring the aircraft is on the correct flight path.

The other options do not accurately represent what MEA guarantees. Fuel efficiency standards relate to operational costs and aircraft performance, rather than safety or navigation. Maximum safety during descent and losing visual contact with the ground touch on flight operation contexts that do not align with the specific function of MEA. Thus, MEA's role focuses on ensuring a safe navigable altitude with appropriate clearance over obstacles and reliable navigation assistance.