What is the minimum altitude a pilot must maintain during an airshow, unless flying a helicopter or participating in an agricultural display?

The minimum altitude a pilot must maintain during an airshow is 100 feet above ground level (agl). This regulation is designed to ensure safety during airshows, which often involve maneuvers that could potentially pose risks to both the pilots and spectators.

By maintaining an altitude of 100 feet agl, pilots can perform their routines with a margin that allows for safe recovery from unexpected situations, while still providing an engaging experience for those watching. This rule applies specifically to aircraft other than helicopters or those involved in agricultural operations, which have different requirements due to the nature of their flight activities.

The distinction in altitude requirements is significant because it recognizes the various operational contexts of different aircraft types. Agricultural aircraft, for instance, may operate at lower altitudes as part of their normal function—such as crop spraying—while helicopters may utilize different flight profiles that allow them to safely operate at lower altitudes without the same risks as fixed-wing aircraft.