What does the acronym MEA stand for in aviation?

The acronym MEA in aviation stands for Minimum Enroute Altitude. This term refers to the lowest altitude that can be flown along a specific route segment, ensuring safe vertical clearance from terrain and obstacles. It also guarantees acceptable navigational signal reception for aircraft. The MEA provides a crucial safety measure, as it helps pilots maintain a height that is safe from obstructions and allows for contact with navigational aids.

While the other terms might seem relevant in different contexts, they do not represent the specific aviation standard that MEA defines. For instance, Maximum Enroute Altitude would indicate an upper limit which is not the focus of this acronym. Minimum Elevation Altitude might relate to certain procedures but does not match the established definition of MEA. Mandatory Enroute Altitude is not a recognized term in aviation standards, further clarifying that MEA has a distinct definition critical for flight safety.