What does MCA stand for?

The term MCA stands for Minimum Crossing Altitude. This is a critical concept in aviation, particularly in the realm of air traffic control and navigation. Minimum Crossing Altitude refers to the minimum altitude at which an aircraft must cross over a specific waypoint or a navigational fix. It is important for maintaining safe vertical separation between aircraft and ensures that they can safely navigate around terrain or other obstacles.

Understanding this term is vital for pilots, as it provides guidance for altitude planning during approach and departure phases of flight, and it helps ensure compliance with air traffic control instructions. It assists in maintaining the safety and efficiency of air operations by ensuring that aircraft remain at safe altitudes as they approach or navigate through busy airspace.