What does MDA stand for in aviation terms?

Minimum Descent Altitude (MDA) is a crucial term in aviation, specifically in the context of instrument approaches and procedures. MDA refers to the lowest altitude to which a pilot can descend during a non-precision approach without having the required visual references to continue the approach and land. This altitude serves as a safety measure to prevent pilots from descending below a safe level before they have established visual contact with the runway or landmarks.

Understanding MDA is essential for maintaining safe operations in low visibility conditions, as it helps pilots make decisions about whether to continue their approach or execute a missed approach. It is also important to note that MDA is used in situations where the approach does not have a published decision altitude or is not supported by precision navigation aids.

The other options do not accurately reflect established aviation terminology. For instance, Maximum Descent Altitude, Minimum Departure Altitude, and Medium Descent Altitude are not recognized terms in aviation and do not represent specific operational criteria that pilots are trained to adhere to during flight operations. Therefore, Minimum Descent Altitude is the correct terminology that reflects the standard practices and safety measures in aviation approaches.