What is the minimum distance required to fly over a congested area?

The correct choice states that a pilot must maintain a minimum altitude of 1,000 feet above the highest obstacle within a horizontal radius of 2,000 feet when flying over congested areas. This regulation is designed to ensure safety and mitigate the risk of collision with tall structures, buildings, and potential hazards in areas where there is a concentration of people. The stipulation for 1,000 feet specifically provides a buffer that enhances the safety margin for both the aircraft and the ground occupants, allowing for emergency maneuvers if necessary.

The specified radius of 2,000 feet ensures that the aircraft is not only clear of immediate obstacles but is also maintaining a safe distance from potentially dangerous situations on the ground, such as gatherings of people in urban areas. Additionally, this altitude requirement is a common standard found in aviation regulations, signifying its importance in maintaining operational safety.

Other options provide different altitude and radius parameters, which either do not meet the established regulations or provide insufficient clearance over congested areas, thereby increasing the risk associated with flying in such environments.