What altitude should you maintain if flying west at more than 3000 feet AGL?

When flying at altitudes above 3,000 feet AGL (Above Ground Level), it is important to adhere to the standard altimeter setting practices established for increased safety and efficient air traffic management. For aircraft flying west, the altitude to maintain is even thousands plus 500 feet.

The guidelines for vertical separation in VFR (Visual Flight Rules) flight states that aircraft flying in a westward direction should operate at altitudes separated by odd and even thousand-foot increments to help ensure safe vertical distance between aircraft. This system helps to decrease the likelihood of mid-air collisions and provides a structured way to handle air traffic, especially considering the varying altitudes used by different aircraft.

In this case, maintaining an altitude of even thousands plus 500 while traveling west contributes to a systematic and organized flow of traffic, which is especially crucial in busy airspace. This practice not only enhances safety but also fosters a predictable environment for pilots navigating in the same airspace.