Doing a lot of VFR flying for MAD? Before you click on the autopilot and go grill a hot dog - make sure your cruise altitude is going to clear all the obstacles ahead. VFR charts have a Maximum Elevation Figure printed in each lat/long quadrangle. As well, the highest obstacle or terrain in that quadrangle is bolded. Be aware that in some cases the MEF can be as little as 100’ above the highest obstacle. I like to plan for at least 500’ above the highest MEF along my route of flight. If winds or tracking might be an issue - take note of surrounding MEFs that parallel your route. A much higher MEF can exist just over the border of the quadrangle.
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