Aviation Dictionary

Minimum safe altitude (MSA)

The minimum altitude depicted on approach charts which provides at least 1,000 feet of obstacle clearance for emergency use within a specified distance from the listed navigation facility.

Dictionary Term

Minimum safe altitude (MSA)

Definition

The minimum altitude depicted on approach charts which provides at least 1,000 feet of obstacle clearance for emergency use within a specified distance from the listed navigation facility.

References

Instrument Procedures Handbook, Federal Aviation Administration, 2017