VFR: Minimum altitudes

This regulation sets minimum altitude requirements for Part 135 operations conducted under VFR (visual flight rules), except during takeoff and landing.

For airplanes:

• During the day, you must stay at least 500 feet above the surface and maintain 500 feet horizontal clearance from any obstacle
• At night, you must fly at least 1,000 feet above the highest obstacle within 5 miles of your course (or 2,000 feet in designated mountainous terrain)

For helicopters: The only restriction is when operating over congested areas—you must maintain at least 300 feet above the surface.

These requirements are more restrictive than Part 91 general aviation rules, reflecting the commercial nature of Part 135 operations. Note that helicopters have greater flexibility than airplanes, particularly outside congested areas where no minimum altitude applies. The night requirements for airplanes are particularly stringent, requiring careful preflight planning to identify obstacles along your route.

*This is a plain-English summary for study only. The official 14 CFR text on this page is controlling — always read the current regulation and consult a CFI.*