Cruising levels

033 Flight PlanningChapter 7

Correct cruising level selection ensures obstacle clearance, opposite-direction traffic separation, and compliance with RVSM where applicable.

IFR cruising levels

Key fact

Based on magnetic track:

• Westerly (180°–359°M): Even flight levels
• Easterly (000°–179°M): Odd flight levels

No +500 ft addition for IFR.

VFR cruising levels

Key fact

Based on magnetic track:

• Westerly (180°–359°M): Even + 500 ft
• Easterly (000°–179°M): Odd + 500 ft

Always convert to magnetic track before determining east/west semicircular rule.

Exam trap

VFR adds 500 ft to the IFR level; IFR does not. A question giving true track must be converted to magnetic before applying the rule.

Minimum heights (VFR)

Key fact

Congested areas: at least 1000 ft above the highest obstacle within a 600 m radius.

Elsewhere: at least 500 ft (150 m) above ground.

Chart altitude symbols

Symbol / term	Meaning
FL number only	Minimum en-route altitude (MEA)
Number + “a”	Minimum off-route altitude (MORA) — 10 NM either side
Number + “T”	Minimum obstruction clearance altitude (MOCA)
MAA	Maximum authorised altitude
MSA	Minimum sector altitude — 1000 ft clearance within 25 NM
Grid sector number	Represents MSA for that sector

ISA temperature correction

Key fact

Apply ISA temperature correction to pressure altitude. Apply correction only if it exceeds 20% of MOC (minimum obstacle clearance). Apply temperature correction for MSA always.

RVSM

Key fact

Always use RVSM flight levels unless the question explicitly states “ICAO rules” (non-RVSM legacy levels). Equipment code W in Item 10 indicates RVSM capability.

Formula — Descent planning

Time to descend = (Cruising altitude + pressure correction − level-off altitude) ÷ Rate of descent

Distance during descent = GS × time to descend

SID and STAR

Key fact

SID and STAR routes are defined as magnetic courses. Intermediate approach segment uses the term “Established”.

Wake turbulence reminder (level selection context)

Key fact

Wake category H (heavy): MTOM over 136 000 kg. Category L (light): under 7000 kg. Category affects separation — linked to Item 9 flight plan data.

Exam trap

MEA is en-route on the airway. MORA extends 10 NM either side of route. MOCA guarantees obstacle clearance on segment — do not swap MORA and MOCA definitions.