What is the minimum altitude required for VFR flight over a built-up area in Canada?
- Thread starter Chris
- Start date
According to the Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs), the minimum altitude for VFR flight over a built-up area depends on the type of aircraft you're operating.
For Aeroplanes:
You must operate at an altitude from which, in the event of an emergency necessitating an immediate landing, it would be possible to land without creating a hazard to persons or property on the surface. In any case, the altitude must not be lower than:
1,000 feet above the highest obstacle located within a horizontal distance of 2,000 feet from the aeroplane
For Helicopters and Other Aircraft (except balloons):
1,000 feet above the highest obstacle located within a horizontal distance of 500 feet from the aircraft
For Balloons:
500 feet above the highest obstacle located within a horizontal distance of 500 feet from the balloon
Important Notes:
- These minimums apply when conducting takeoff, approach, or landing operations, or where specifically permitted under CAR 602.15
- The regulation emphasizes that you must be able to land without creating a hazard to persons or property in an emergency
- "Built-up area" includes any area with a concentration of buildings, structures, or people
- These are minimum altitudes - good airmanship may dictate flying higher
Source: TC AIM RAC Section 5.4 (Part 2) - CAR 602.14(2)(a)
The key principle is maintaining sufficient altitude to handle an emergency without endangering people or property on the ground.
