Which of the following is NOT a factor to consider for altitude selection?

When considering altitude selection for navigation, the factors at play revolve around safety, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency. The correct choice highlights that the presence of nearby airports is not inherently a factor in determining the most suitable altitude for your flight.

Altitudes are typically chosen based on criteria such as weather conditions, the geography of the terrain, and adherence to cruising altitude regulations—such as ensuring appropriate vertical separation from other aircraft and terrain. Storm patterns significantly affect altitude decisions since flying above or around adverse weather is crucial for safety. Similarly, understanding magnetic track cruising altitudes is essential for aligning with standard navigation practices and avoiding potential conflicts, as it ensures that you maintain proper vertical separation relative to other aircraft following the same general route.

Minimum clearance over terrain is also a vital consideration as it directly affects safety margins, ensuring that you avoid obstacles and maintain regulatory standards for terrain clearance. This is particularly important in mountain flying or in areas with dense obstacle fields.

The proximity of nearby airports does not directly influence cruising altitude and primarily comes into play during the approach and landing phases of flight planning rather than during the cruising phase. Hence, identifying that the presence of nearby airports is not a primary altitude consideration is key to effective navigation.