Maximum Authorized Altitude (MAA) is defined as what?

• A. The highest altitude permitted in the entire sector
• B. The maximum usable altitude for an airspace structure or route segment
• C. The altitude for standard instrument departures
• D. The ceiling of the local airport

Answer: (B)

MAA is the highest altitude at which the defined airspace structure or route segment provides ATC separation. Within this altitude, ATC services and obstacle clearance are guaranteed for that specific structure, so pilots can rely on active ATC separation up to that point. Above it, the design of the airspace structure may not support guaranteed separation, and the segment’s service may not apply in the same way.

That’s why the correct concept is the maximum usable altitude for an airspace structure or route segment. It’s not about the overall sector’s top, nor about instrument departure procedures, nor about the airport’s ceiling.