Which statement accurately reflects the daytime maximum obstruction angle of approach?

• A. 6 degrees
• B. 4 degrees
• C. 3 degrees
• D. 5 degrees

Answer: (A)

During daylight, you can use a slightly steeper approach path because obstacles are more visible, and you have better opportunity to adjust course to avoid them. The standard limit for the daytime obstruction angle of approach is six degrees, which provides a safe balance between a practical, efficient approach and maintaining adequate clearance from obstacles when rigging and handling sling loads. Going beyond this angle increases the risk of contact with obstructions, while smaller angles would be unnecessarily restrictive for daylight operations. Nighttime limits are typically lower because visibility is reduced, requiring tighter margins for safety.