FAA Instrument Rating Airplane (IRA)Regulations and CurrencyMedium
A pilot experiences two-way radio failure while flying an airway with an MEA of 5,000 feet at an assigned altitude of 5,000 feet. Ten miles ahead, the airway's MEA increases to 7,000 feet due to rising terrain. According to 14 CFR 91.185(c)(2) and standard IFR procedures, when should the pilot begin the climb to 7,000 feet?
- AOnly after crossing the fix where the 7,000-foot MEA segment begins
- BIn time to reach 7,000 feet by the point where the higher MEA segment begins
- COnly if in IMC; VMC allows the pilot to remain at 5,000 feet indefinitely
- DImmediately upon losing radio contact, regardless of position
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. In time to reach 7,000 feet by the point where the higher MEA segment begins
A pilot must climb early enough to reach the higher MEA by the point along the route where that MEA becomes effective, ensuring terrain and obstacle clearance is maintained throughout the transition, per 91.177 and 91.185(c)(2) guidance.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Incorrect — waiting until crossing the fix before climbing would leave the aircraft below the required MEA in that segment.
- C. Incorrect — lost comm procedures under 91.185 apply regardless of VMC/IMC once in the ATC system on an IFR flight plan.
- D. Incorrect — climbing immediately might be premature and inconsistent with route planning, though not unsafe by itself; the rule requires being at the MEA specifically by the segment start.
MEA Transition During Lost Comm
When an MEA increases along a route, the pilot must climb in time to be at the new, higher MEA by the point where it becomes effective.
- Applies under 91.177 minimum altitude rules
- Climb must be completed before entering higher-MEA segment
- Relevant during lost comm route/altitude determination
Memory trick: Climb before the mountain, not after you're already over it.