What is the minimum altitude AGL for night navigation routes?

The minimum altitude above ground level (AGL) for night navigation routes is established to enhance safety and ensure sufficient clearance from terrain and obstacles. Choosing an altitude of 2,000 feet AGL provides a buffer that reduces the risk of collision with unlit structures or terrain, which can be challenging to identify at night.

Regulations and guidelines direct pilots to operate at this altitude to promote a more uniform standard for nighttime operations, where visibility is naturally diminished. Additionally, flying at this altitude gives pilots more time to react to any unforeseen challenges, including sudden weather changes, and allows for enhanced situational awareness. This accommodation is crucial for maintaining a safe flight environment during the potentially more hazardous conditions of night flying.

The other options suggest altitudes that do not meet the necessary safety margin required for effective night navigation, which can increase risks associated with low visibility and challenging navigation conditions.