Minimum Crossing Altitude
What is minimum crossing altitude?
The minimum crossing altitude (MCA) is the lowest altitude at which you must cross a specified fix when continuing toward a higher minimum en route altitude (MEA). It ensures you begin climbing early enough to clear terrain or obstacles ahead before reaching the higher-MEA segment. Think of it as a "start climbing now" notice—the chart tells you to be at this altitude by the fix, not after it.
Also known as: MCA, minimum crossing altitude
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