FAA Private Pilot Helicopter (PRH)Navigation and AirspaceEasy
A private pilot is flying a helicopter cross-country at 3,500 feet MSL on a magnetic course of 090°, operating under VFR in uncontrolled airspace. According to 14 CFR Part 91, what altitude restriction applies to the pilot?
- AThe helicopter must fly at an even-thousand-foot altitude plus 500 feet because the course is easterly
- BThe helicopter must climb to at least 4,500 feet MSL to comply with the eastbound cruising altitude rule
- CHelicopters are exempt from the VFR hemispheric cruising altitude rule and may fly at any altitude
- DThe helicopter must fly at an odd-thousand-foot altitude plus 500 feet because the course is easterly
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Helicopters are exempt from the VFR hemispheric cruising altitude rule and may fly at any altitude
14 CFR 91.159 specifically exempts helicopters from the VFR cruising altitude (hemispheric) rule that applies to airplanes. A helicopter may be flown at any altitude consistent with safety, without regard to magnetic course.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This describes the westbound rule for airplanes, which also does not apply to helicopters.
- B. There is no requirement forcing a helicopter to a specific altitude based on course.
- D. This is the hemispheric rule for airplanes, but it does not apply to helicopters.
Helicopter Cruising Altitude Exemption
14 CFR 91.159 exempts helicopters from the VFR hemispheric cruising altitude rule that applies to fixed-wing aircraft.
- Airplanes must fly odd+500/even+500 based on magnetic course
- Helicopters may fly at any altitude regardless of course
- Rule applies more than 3,000 feet AGL in level cruising flight
Memory trick: Helicopters Hover above the hemispheric rule.