What is the minimum altitude an aircraft must maintain when flying over a forest fire area?

The correct altitude for flying over a forest fire area is 3,000 feet above ground level (AGL). This minimum height is established to ensure the safety of the aircraft, as flying at a higher altitude allows for better visibility of the fire’s dynamics and ensures a safe distance from the turbulence and smoke that can arise from the fire. Additionally, this altitude helps reduce the risk of interference with firefighting operations that may involve air resources needing to operate at lower altitudes for water drops or surveillance.

Flying significantly lower than this minimum could expose the aircraft to hazards such as erratic winds, smoke, or heat, all of which can dramatically affect aircraft performance and safety. Maintaining a higher altitude provides pilots with a more comprehensive understanding of the situation on the ground and allows for better navigation and safety measures during this critical time.