Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) Practice Exam

What is the minimum altitude a pilot must maintain while performing S-turns?

1. 300 ft above the highest obstacle

2. 500 ft above the highest obstacle

3. 700 ft above sea level

4. 1000 ft AGL

The correct answer is: 500 ft above the highest obstacle

The correct answer highlights that, during maneuvers such as S-turns, a pilot must maintain a minimum altitude of 500 feet above the highest obstacle within a horizontal radius of 600 feet. This requirement ensures a significant margin for safety, allowing the pilot to have sufficient vertical space in case of an altitude loss due to various factors, such as turbulence, loss of control, or unexpected maneuvers. By maintaining this altitude, the pilot also adheres to regulations that promote safe flying practices, particularly when performing visual maneuvers over populated areas or obstacles. The regulation is designed to give pilots the necessary room to execute these maneuvers without jeopardizing the safety of the aircraft and its occupants, as well as those on the ground. Choosing an altitude higher than the minimum requirement is always good practice, but 500 feet above obstacles is the specified threshold that must be observed during S-turns to ensure compliance with regulations and best practices for flight safety.