Which acronym is defined as minimum enroute altitude?

Which acronym is defined as minimum enroute altitude?

• A. MDA
• B. MOCA
• C. MEA
• D. MCA

Answer: (C)

Minimum Enroute Altitude is the lowest published altitude on an IFR enroute segment that guarantees obstacle clearance and reliable navigation signal reception along that route. That combination of obstacle clearance and navigation reception is what MEA provides, so it’s the correct term for minimum enroute altitude. Minimum Obstruction Clearance Altitude also ensures obstacle clearance, but it only guarantees VOR reception within 100 miles of the VOR; beyond that, reception isn’t guaranteed. Minimum Descent Altitude is used on approaches, not for enroute planning. Minimum Crossing Altitude is the altitude you must cross a fix at, not the altitude to maintain along the route.

Minimum Enroute Altitude is the lowest published altitude on an IFR enroute segment that guarantees obstacle clearance and reliable navigation signal reception along that route. That combination of obstacle clearance and navigation reception is what MEA provides, so it’s the correct term for minimum enroute altitude.

Minimum Obstruction Clearance Altitude also ensures obstacle clearance, but it only guarantees VOR reception within 100 miles of the VOR; beyond that, reception isn’t guaranteed. Minimum Descent Altitude is used on approaches, not for enroute planning. Minimum Crossing Altitude is the altitude you must cross a fix at, not the altitude to maintain along the route.