Instrument Rating Checkride Practice Test

For obstruction clearance during departures, the requirement to make the initial turn no earlier than 400 feet AGL is critical for ensuring that an aircraft can safely clear any potential obstacles in the departure path. This altitude provides sufficient height above the ground to avoid obstacles that may be present close to the airport, thereby enhancing safety during the critical initial phase of the flight.

Making the initial turn too early could lead to a situation where the aircraft is not sufficiently high to clear any obstructions or terrain that may be located in the intended flight path. By adhering to the requirement of turning no earlier than 400 feet AGL, pilots can ensure they have adequate clearance and reduce the risk of conflicting with obstacles.

The other options represent various aspects of safe flight operations, but they do not address the specific need for initial turn height relative to obstacle clearance as directly as the correct choice does.