Plain English Meaning

When you're flying VFR more than 3,000 feet above the ground, the altitude you cruise at depends on which direction you're heading. Going roughly east, you fly at an odd-thousand altitude plus 500 feet. Going roughly west, you fly at an even-thousand altitude plus 500 feet. This keeps opposite-direction traffic separated by 1,000 feet.

Full Definition

The specific altitudes that pilots operating under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) above 3,000 feet AGL must use when in level cruising flight, based on magnetic course. On a magnetic course of 0° through 179°, pilots fly odd thousands plus 500 feet (e.g., 3,500; 5,500; 7,500). On a magnetic course of 180° through 359°, pilots fly even thousands plus 500 feet (e.g., 4,500; 6,500; 8,500). The rule applies up to and including 18,000 feet MSL.

Context Anchor

Seen in cross-country planning, lessons, and any of choosing an altitude for .