Final answer:
MSA stands for Minimum Safe Altitude, a term in aviation that ensures a minimum clearance from obstacles. An example from the DoD FLIP might be a documented MSA of 2,500 feet within a 25 nautical mile radius of a military air base, which pilots must adhere to for safety reasons.
Step-by-step explanation:
MSA stands for Minimum Safe Altitude, which is a term used predominantly within the context of aviation. In aviation, the Minimum Safe Altitude is the lowest altitude which may be used which will provide a minimum clearance of obstacles in the area of operation. It is a safety measure established to ensure that aircraft maintain altitude above obstructions, this is in regard to both natural and manmade structures.
An example of MSA can often be found in the Department of Defense (DoD) Flight Information Publications (FLIP). These publications include charts and books that provide information on airspace, air routes, and airport plans and are essential for navigation and flight planning in the military domain. The MSA will often be depicted on approach plates used by pilots to ensure a safe altitude during the arrival phases of flight near airfields.
For instance, the MSA around a busy military air base might be documented as being 2,500 feet within a 25 nautical mile radius of the base. This means that pilots are required to maintain at least a 2,500-foot altitude within this area to avoid potential hazards unless they are on an active approach or departure procedure which allows for lower altitudes under controlled conditions.