What is the minimum safe altitude required to operate an aircraft over congested areas?

The minimum safe altitude required to operate an aircraft over congested areas is 1,000 feet above the highest obstacle within a horizontal distance of 2,000 feet of the aircraft. This regulation ensures a safety buffer that allows the pilot to deal with emergencies while providing sufficient clearance above buildings, structures, and any potential hazards on the ground. Flying at this altitude helps to mitigate risks to both the aircraft and the people below, promoting safety in densely populated areas.

The specified distance is crucial as it accounts for a wide range of obstacles that could be present in an urban environment, thus the adoption of 1,000 feet AGL ensures a standard of safety that balances operational necessity and risk management.