Glossary
Navigation & Airspace
Minimum Safe Altitude (MSA)
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Definition
The lowest altitude providing obstacle clearance within a specified area
Related Terms
Approach Procedure
A series of maneuvers used to align an aircraft with a runway for landing
Controlled Flight Into Terrain (CFIT)
An accident where an airworthy aircraft is flown into terrain, water, or an obstacle
Ground Proximity Warning System (GPWS)
An aircraft system that alerts pilots when the aircraft is in dangerous proximity to terrain
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Minimum Safe Altitude (MSA)?
The lowest altitude providing obstacle clearance within a specified area
What does MSA stand for?
MSA stands for Minimum Safe Altitude (MSA). The lowest altitude providing obstacle clearance within a specified area
How does Minimum Safe Altitude (MSA) relate to other aviation concepts?
Minimum Safe Altitude (MSA) is closely related to Approach Procedure and Controlled Flight Into Terrain, among other key aviation concepts.
More in Navigation & Airspace
Airspace Classification
Airway (AWY)
Approach Procedure
Area Navigation (RNAV)
Decision Height (DH)
Distance Measuring Equipment (DME)
Flight Information Region (FIR)
Flight Level (FL)
Glideslope (GS)
GPS Navigation (GPS)
Instrument Landing System (ILS)
Missed Approach
Non-Directional Beacon (NDB)
Required Navigation Performance (RNP)
Squawk Code
Standard Instrument Departure (SID)
Standard Terminal Arrival Route (STAR)
Transition Altitude (TA)
Transponder (XPDR)
VHF Omnidirectional Range (VOR)
Waypoint (WPT)