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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/comm-congested-1000

Over a congested area, you must stay at least how high above the highest obstacle within 2,000 feet horizontally?

1,000 feet.

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  1. 500 feet
  2. 1,000 feet ✔
  3. 2,000 feet

Why: Section 91.119(b) requires 1,000 feet above the highest obstacle within a horizontal radius of 2,000 feet over any congested area or open-air assembly. Elsewhere it is 500 feet above the surface, except over open water or sparsely populated areas.

Huh, didn't know that: In sparsely populated areas you still may not be closer than 500 feet to any person, vessel, vehicle or structure.

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References

Answer: 1,000 feet. Section 91.119(b) requires 1,000 feet above the highest obstacle within a horizontal radius of 2,000 feet over any congested area or open-air assembly. Elsewhere it is 500 feet above the surface, except over open water or sparsely populated areas.

  1. 14 CFR 91.119 Minimum safe altitudes: General (Cornell LII eCFR mirror) www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/14/91.119
    1,000 feet above the highest obstacle within a horizontal radius of 2,000 feet of the aircraft
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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