What is the minimum obstacle clearance required for an air taxi service operating at night?

The minimum obstacle clearance required for an air taxi service operating at night is set to ensure safety in operations where visibility may be limited. For an air taxi flying at night, the regulation mandates an altitude of 1,000 feet above any obstacle within a horizontal radius of 3 miles. This standard takes into account the increased potential for encountering obstacles during nighttime operations when pilots rely more heavily on their instruments and may have reduced visual reference.

This altitude provides a buffer that helps ensure the aircraft can safely avoid obstacles such as buildings, towers, or natural terrain features. The requirement aims to minimize the risk of accidents due to unexpected obstructions, giving pilots sufficient altitude to navigate safely. The consideration for a 3-mile radius reflects typical operational patterns and the necessity of maintaining a safe distance from obstacles typically found in both rural and urban environments.

Each of the other altitude options, while potentially applicable to different operations or conditions, do not align with the specific regulation for air taxi services operating at night, making the chosen standard the most appropriate for ensuring safety in low-light conditions.