What altitude must a pilot maintain when flying over congested areas?

When operating over congested areas, the rule requires that a pilot maintain an altitude of at least 1,000 feet above the highest obstacle within a horizontal distance of 2,000 feet. This regulation is established to ensure a safety buffer between the aircraft and buildings, vehicles, and people on the ground. The rationale behind this requirement is to minimize risk in the event of an emergency descent or maneuver, as well as to enhance safety during flight operations in areas with significant ground congestion.

In contrast, the other options either set lower altitudes or distance criteria that do not comply with the regulatory requirements for congested areas. For example, maintaining just 500 feet above obstacles could be too low, given the potential for rapid descent or the presence of tall structures. Similarly, other distances or altitude figures do not align with the established regulations aimed at ensuring the safety of both the aircraft and those on the ground. The specified altitude and distance reflect the need for a higher safety margin in the context of urban environments where obstructions are prevalent.