What is the lowest MSL altitude at which an IFR aircraft is vectored by a radar controller?

The lowest MSL altitude at which an IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) aircraft can be vectored by a radar controller is known as the Minimum Vectoring Altitude (MVA). This altitude is determined by air traffic control and is essential for maintaining safe vertical separation from terrain, obstacles, and other air traffic. The MVA is specifically tailored to ensure that aircraft being vectored receive a safe clearance above the surrounding landscape and potential hazards.

The concept behind the Minimum Vectoring Altitude is to provide a level of safety for aircraft while they are being directed through controlled airspace. Controllers use MVAs to manage traffic efficiently, allowing for safe maneuvering and positioning during flight.

In the context of the other options, while they all relate to altitudes necessary for safe flight operations, they serve different purposes. The Minimum En Route Altitude is the lowest altitude that can be flown on an air traffic control route segment, ensuring adequate navigation signal coverage and terrain clearance, but not specifically for vectoring. Minimum Safe Altitude refers to the altitude that provides a buffer for safe clearances, particularly for emergency situations, while Minimum IFR Altitude does pertain to the lowest altitude for IFR operations but does not specifically address the conditions under which an aircraft can be vectored