What is the minimum altitude a pilot must maintain from a forest fire?

The minimum altitude a pilot must maintain from a forest fire is 3000 feet AGL within 5 nautical miles. This requirement is grounded in safety regulations aimed at protecting both the aircraft and firefighting efforts below. Maintaining this altitude helps ensure that the pilot avoids smoke and turbulence caused by the fire, which can significantly affect flight safety. Staying at this altitude also reduces the risk of inadvertently interfering with aerial firefighting operations occurring at lower altitudes.

Flying at an altitude of 3000 feet AGL allows for better visibility and gives pilots ample time to react to any sudden changes in conditions, such as strong updrafts or downdrafts that can occur near large fires. It is essential for pilots to adhere to this altitude restriction not only for their own safety but also to respect the efforts of firefighting personnel on the ground.