What is Minimum Vectoring Altitude (MVA)?
Minimum vectoring altitude (MVA) is a specified altitude, which is determined by the appropriate authority for a certain area, and it is the lowest altitude that can be used by air traffic controllers for vectoring aircraft at a specific location. MVAs are typically established in mountainous or other areas where the relevant authority recognizes deviation from standard altitude procedures due to terrain or obstruction avoidance requirements. It is important to note that MVA should not be confused with the minimum en route altitude (MEA), which is the lowest altitude used during a climb and descent, and taking into account the speed of the aircraft, provides sufficient terrain and obstacle clearance within a certain sector. In contrast, the MVA refers to the altitude level in the immediate vicinity of an airport or when an aircraft is transitioning to another altitude level. In general, air traffic controllers maintain the highest possible altitude for an aircraft to ensure the safest approach and landing, but in circumstances where towers are obstructed by terrain of varying heights, they use radio communications to maintain safe separation between aircraft. Overall, the MVA serves as a crucial tool for air traffic controllers by providing a safe altitude during low visibility operations and aiding them to manage air traffic around obstacles more efficiently.
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