What should a pilot confirm when determining the height of an obstacle on the chart?

In determining the height of an obstacle on a chart, the crucial aspect is understanding that it can be represented in either Mean Sea Level (MSL) or Above Ground Level (AGL). This flexibility is essential because pilots need to account for their altitude during various phases of flight—such as takeoff, approach, and landing.

For instance, when flying at high elevations, an obstacle that is significant in terms of MSL might not pose a threat when the aircraft is at a lower altitude AGL. Conversely, knowing the height of an obstacle in AGL is vital for safe navigation in lower altitudes, such as during approach or landing phases.

Thus, the distinction that the obstacle height can be reported in both MSL and AGL is critical for situational awareness and flight safety, as this ensures that pilots can make informed decisions while navigating around obstacles.