Instrument Rating Checkride Practice Test

At what altitude must the pilot remain clear of clouds during a contact approach?

1. 1000' AGL

2. 1500' AGL

3. 2000' AGL

4. 3000' AGL

The correct answer is: 1000' AGL

The correct altitude at which a pilot must remain clear of clouds during a contact approach is 1000 feet AGL (Above Ground Level). This is in accordance with the regulations established by the FAA. A contact approach is an approach procedure that allows a pilot to proceed visually to the airport from a position that is clear of clouds, allowing for the use of visual reference to navigate to the airport. However, it is essential that the pilot is able to maintain visual reference to the ground at all times during this approach to ensure safety. Above 1000 feet AGL, pilots are generally expected to have sufficient visibility and space from the clouds to maintain visual reference to the ground, thus ensuring compliance with safety standards established within the regulations for VFR and IFR operations. This altitude ensures that pilots can safely navigate and make appropriate decisions regarding altitude and visibility while flying in potentially low-visibility conditions. The other options, which suggest higher altitudes, are not aligned with standard regulations regarding contact approaches and may imply a greater separation from clouds than is necessary when visual reference can be maintained at 1000 feet AGL.