What is the minimum cruising altitude over congested areas?

The minimum cruising altitude over congested areas is specified as 1,000 feet above the highest obstacle within a horizontal radius of 2,000 feet from the aircraft. This rule is in place to enhance safety and minimize risk in densely populated regions. By maintaining this altitude, pilots can ensure a safe vertical separation from buildings, structures, and any potential obstacles, allowing sufficient space for maneuvering in case of emergencies.

This standard is critical because congested areas often have taller buildings and infrastructure that could pose a danger to aircraft flying at lower altitudes. Therefore, the 1,000-foot clearance helps to provide a buffer against potential accidents and facilitates safer operations over urban settings. The other options suggest either insufficient clearance (500 feet) or alternative altitudes (1,500 feet or 2,000 feet) that do not align with the established regulations governing flight over congested areas.