Maximum Elevation Figures
Use the MEF as a terrain-and-obstacle planning cue without treating it as a guaranteed safe altitude.
YOU WILL BE ABLE TO
- 01Identify the rule, source, or principle behind this idea: Each quadrangle's MEF represents the highest charted terrain or obstacle with a safety allowance and rounding method.
- 02Explain the operational effect of this idea: The large and small digits are read in thousands and hundreds of feet MSL.
- 03Apply the lesson to a new mission and defend a go, modify, or no-go decision.
01 / MISSION
Begin with the operating problem.
A quadrangle shows an MEF of 36 while the mission launch elevation is 3,200 feet MSL.
02 / CORE BRIEF
What the remote pilot needs to know.
Each quadrangle's MEF represents the highest charted terrain or obstacle with a safety allowance and rounding method.
The large and small digits are read in thousands and hundreds of feet MSL.
Uncharted objects, temporary cranes, data limits, and drone operating rules still require separate review.
03 / PILOT DECISION
Make the call.
Use the figure as an alert to nearby high terrain or obstacles, then inspect the specific route and remain within Part 107 limits.
04 / FIELD CHECK
Put it into the flight plan.
Do not copy an MEF into the mission plan as a legal minimum safe altitude.
05 / KNOWLEDGE CHECK
What does an MEF of 36 represent?
Reveal the debrief
A maximum elevation figure of 3,600 feet MSL for that quadrangle, subject to the chart's construction method and limitations.
RELATED FAA REFERENCES
Verify before you fly.
Educational summary only. Current regulation, FAA approval conditions, manufacturer instructions, and site-specific facts control the operation.