What is the Minimum Crossing Altitude (MCA) on the V394 when crossing APLES southwest bound?

The Minimum Crossing Altitude (MCA) is crucial in aviation as it defines the lowest altitude that an aircraft must maintain while crossing a specific point on a designated route, ensuring safe terrain clearance and separation from other air traffic.

In the context of the V394 route when crossing APLES southwest bound, the MCA of 9100 feet is designated based on several factors including the surrounding terrain elevations and airspace configuration. The altitude is set to guarantee that aircraft are above obstacles or terrain, particularly in areas where there might be high ground or other flight operations.

Selecting 9100 feet as the MCA takes into account the known maximum elevations in the area and is established through route studies that account for safety margins. It ensures that commercial and private aircraft can transit this airspace without risk of collision with terrain.

The other altitudes listed as options do not provide the necessary terrain clearance or align with established air traffic management practices for this specific route and direction of travel. Therefore, the correct identification of MCA as 9100 feet reflects adherence to safety protocols critical for aircraft operation in controlled airspace.