What is a recommended technique for avoiding wire strikes while flying?

Flying at least 500 feet above ground level (AGL) over towers and poles is recommended to avoid wire strikes because this altitude typically provides a sufficient safety margin to clear most obstacles, including power lines and communication towers. In many cases, utility lines and towers can be difficult to spot from the air, especially in varied terrain or when flying in less-than-ideal visibility. By maintaining a height of at least 500 feet, pilots can minimize the risk of inadvertently encountering these hazardous obstacles.

Additionally, being aware of the location of tall structures and their associated wires enhances situational awareness and contributes to safe flight planning. This altitude guideline aligns with established safety practices and regulations focusing on collision avoidance with obstacles in the flight path.

Other options do not provide the same level of safety. For instance, while flying at least 200 feet AGL may help in urban areas, it is not sufficient for the additional height required to safely clear wires and towers. Flying through valleys may actually increase the risk of encountering obstacles rather than avoiding them, and maintaining a constant altitude of 1000 feet AGL at all times is impractical given varying terrain and airspace considerations.