Which figure indicates the elevation of the highest known feature in MSL found in a chart section?

The Maximum Elevation Figure (MEF) is the term used to indicate the elevation of the highest known feature, including terrain and obstacles, in a given chart section, measured in feet above mean sea level (MSL). This figure is crucial for pilots as it helps ensure that they maintain adequate clearance from the highest terrain and obstructions in the area while navigating.

The MEF provides a reliable reference point to avoid potential collisions with obstacles that are not included in other altitude descriptions. Pilots rely on the MEF when planning their routes, particularly in mountainous or obstacle-rich environments, as it represents the maximum height that can be expected in that section of airspace.

In contrast, minimum safe altitude refers to the lowest altitude that provides adequate clearance over obstacles, but it does not specifically indicate the highest known feature. Obstacle clearance altitude is also designed to ensure safe passage over known obstructions, but it is more focused on specific routes rather than representing the highest feature for a broader area. Traffic pattern height, on the other hand, pertains to the altitude at which aircraft typically fly when in the traffic pattern for landing and does not serve as a reference for the highest terrain or obstacle. Thus, the MEF is the most relevant and specific measurement for