When operating VFR in level cruising flight at more than 3000 ft AGL, which altitudes should be used?

When flying VFR (Visual Flight Rules) at levels above 3000 feet AGL (Above Ground Level), the appropriate use of altitudes adheres to the FAA's regulations regarding cruising altitudes. According to these regulations, pilots should maintain altitudes based on their magnetic course.

For courses running from 180 to 359 degrees, the standard practice is to use even thousands plus 500 feet. This means that if your magnetic course is within that range, you would select altitudes like 4500, 6500, 8500 feet, and so on. This altitude assignment helps ensure safe vertical separation between aircraft traveling in opposing directions, as those heading south or west will generally use different altitudes than those heading north or east.

Maintaining this altitude scheme helps promote an organized flow of air traffic, reducing the risk of mid-air collisions. In contrast, while the other options specify the use of odd or alternative altitude assignments based on different courses, they don’t align with the FAA guidelines for VFR cruising altitudes at higher altitudes.