When is an aircraft considered to be at Minimum Safe Altitude (MSA)?

An aircraft is considered to be at Minimum Safe Altitude (MSA) when it clears terrain within a specified distance from the airport, typically 22 nautical miles. MSA is designed to provide a safety buffer for aircraft flying in the vicinity of the airport, as it ensures that they will maintain a safe vertical distance above obstacles and terrain in the area.

The definition and application of MSA are crucial for ensuring safe flight operations, particularly during approaches, when an aircraft may not be able to rely solely on visual references and could be transitioning through various airspace classes. By maintaining altitude above the designated safe minimum, pilots can mitigate risks associated with unplanned terrain encounters, enhancing safety margins during flight operations.

While options related to VFR altitude and maintaining above Minimum Altitude for IFR flights may contribute to general safety and compliance with airspace regulations, they do not specifically define MSA in the context of avoiding obstacles and terrain. The concept of MSA focuses explicitly on providing a safety buffer around the airport environment, which is reflected in the correct answer.