When cleared for a stereo route, which altitude must you be above by 6 DME?

When cleared for a stereo route, you must be above 4000 feet Mean Sea Level (MSL) by 6 DME. This requirement is established to ensure safe vertical separation from terrain and other air traffic within the airspace as you navigate the route.

Stereo routes are designed to allow for smoother traffic flows and to provide more convenient routing options for aircraft. The 4000 feet MSL requirement enhances safety by keeping aircraft above the minimum safe altitude for the region, which helps prevent terrain and obstacle conflicts, especially in areas with varied elevation. Additionally, this altitude helps ensure that aircraft are well clear of any possible limits imposed by airspace or other operational factors as they follow the designated DME distance requirement.

Understanding this altitude requirement is critical for pilots to maintain situational awareness and adherence to airspace rules, which ultimately helps to ensure safe and efficient flight operations.