What does MSA guarantee in terms of altitude?

The term MSA, or Minimum Safe Altitude, is an important aspect of aviation safety. MSA guarantees that an aircraft will maintain a specific altitude above the highest obstacle within a defined distance from the route being flown. The correct answer indicates that MSA requires an altitude that is at least 1000 feet above the highest obstacle within a designated radius.

This provision is crucial because it ensures a safety buffer that allows pilots to navigate safely over terrain and man-made structures, reducing the risk of collision during flight. By adhering to this altitude, pilots can maintain a safer operational environment, especially in areas where obstacles may not be clearly marked or visible on a radar or map.

In contrast, the other choices suggest higher altitudes which are not specified by the MSA regulations, emphasizing that while additional altitude can increase safety, MSA specifically prescribes the 1000 feet minimum as the standard.