At what altitude do victor airways typically begin?

Victor airways typically begin at 1200 feet Above Ground Level (AGL). This altitude was established to provide a dedicated navigational structure for aircraft operating under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) and to create a safe vertical separation between IFR traffic and general aviation traffic, which often operates below this altitude.

The design of the airspace system considers the common cruising altitudes used by different classes of aircraft. By starting victor airways at 1200 feet AGL, it ensures sufficient vertical separation from other traffic operating at lower altitudes, particularly during visual flight rules (VFR) operations.

Understanding this altitude is crucial for pilots as it impacts their flight planning and navigation in areas where these airways are prevalent. Awareness of victor airway altitudes contributes to safe operation and adherence to air traffic control instructions, particularly when transitioning from uncontrolled to controlled airspace.