Which FAA exams test 14 CFR 91.119?

This regulation is tested on the following FAA exams: PAR, IRA, CAX, UAG. These include the FAA Private Pilot (PAR), FAA Instrument Rating (IRA), FAA Commercial Pilot (CAX), FAA Remote Pilot (Part 107).

Part 91General Operating and Flight Rules

14 CFR 91.119 — Minimum Safe Altitudes

1,000 feet above obstacles in congested areas (within 2,000 ft horizontal), 500 feet AGL over uncongested areas, and safe altitude over open water or sparsely populated areas.

Regulation Text

Except when necessary for takeoff or landing, no person may operate an aircraft below the following altitudes: Anywhere — an altitude allowing, if a power unit fails, an emergency landing without undue hazard to persons or property on the surface. Over congested areas — 1,000 feet above the highest obstacle within a horizontal radius of 2,000 feet. Over other than congested areas — 500 feet above the surface, except over open water or sparsely populated areas, where the aircraft may not be operated closer than 500 feet to any person, vessel, vehicle, or structure.

Note: This is an excerpt. Refer to the full regulation in eCFR for the complete text.

Plain-English Explanation

You must always fly high enough that if your engine quits, you can land without endangering people on the ground. Over cities and towns: 1,000 feet above the tallest obstacle within 2,000 feet of you. Over rural areas: 500 feet AGL. Over open water or unpopulated areas: just stay 500 feet from any person, boat, vehicle, or structure. Helicopters have different rules — they can go lower if they can land safely.