A helicopter pilot wants to operate at an altitude lower than the minimums prescribed in 14 CFR 91.119 for airplanes over a congested area. Under what condition is this specifically permitted for helicopters?
- AIf the helicopter is operated without hazard to persons or property on the surface and in accordance with routes or altitudes established by the FAA
- BIf the flight remains within the traffic pattern of a towered airport
- CIf a certificated flight instructor is giving instruction at the time
- DIf the flight is conducted at night with the anti-collision lights on
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. If the helicopter is operated without hazard to persons or property on the surface and in accordance with routes or altitudes established by the FAA
14 CFR 91.119(d) provides a specific helicopter exception to the general minimum safe altitude rules, allowing operation at less than the prescribed altitudes if it is done without hazard to persons or property on the surface, and in compliance with any routes or altitudes specifically prescribed by the FAA. This exception exists because of the helicopter's unique low-speed and vertical flight capabilities.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Traffic pattern operations are governed by separate airport traffic rules, not this exception.
- C. Instructional flights are not exempt from minimum altitude rules on this basis alone.
- D. Lighting has no bearing on the minimum altitude exception.
Helicopter Minimum Altitude Exception (91.119(d))
Helicopters may be operated at less than the altitudes prescribed for airplanes in 91.119 if operated without hazard to persons or property on the surface and per FAA-established routes/altitudes.
- Applies only to helicopters
- Requires no hazard to surface persons/property
- May require compliance with FAA-designated routes/altitudes
- Reflects helicopter's unique operating capability
Memory trick: Helicopters can 'hover-hop' low if they hurt no one and follow FAA routes.