What does MVA stand for in the context of IFR altitudes?

MVA stands for Minimum Vectoring Altitude, which is a crucial term used in aviation, particularly in air traffic control. This altitude is the lowest altitude at which air traffic controllers can provide safe radar vectoring to aircraft. It is established to ensure that aircraft have adequate terrain and obstacle clearance while navigating under radar control.

The MVA is determined based on a combination of factors, including the topography of the area, known obstacles, and airspace structure. By using the MVA, controllers can safely direct aircraft without the risk of them colliding with terrain or other obstructions, especially in areas where visual references might be limited, such as in poor weather conditions.

The other terms presented do not accurately reflect what MVA refers to in this context: while "Maximum Vectoring Altitude" might suggest a limit to altitudes, it does not fit the safety mandate that MVA represents, nor do "Minimum Visual Altitude" or "Maximum Visual Altitude" pertain to the specific context of radar vectoring in controlled airspace.