At what minimum altitude must ferrying flights be made?

Ferrying flights refer to the transportation of an aircraft from one location to another without carrying passengers or cargo, often for maintenance, relocation, or repositioning purposes. The minimum altitude for these flights is typically set to ensure safety, avoid unintentional encounters with obstacles or terrain, and comply with aviation regulations.

A minimum altitude of 500 feet provides a sufficient buffer above the ground to minimize risks associated with ground features such as buildings, trees, and other obstacles, as well as to facilitate safe emergency landings should they become necessary. This altitude allows for a safe operational margin while also being practical for pilots when conducting such flights under various conditions.

Regulatory agencies often emphasize maintaining a safe clearance from the ground during such operations, which is why this figure is important in ensuring the safety and legality of ferrying flights. Flying at a lower altitude could potentially lead to hazardous situations if a pilot encounters unexpected issues or requires evasive actions.