Minimum Reception Altitude (MRA)

Minimum Reception Altitude (MRA) is the lowest altitude at which an aircraft can receive acceptable navigation signals from a specific navaid to determine an intersection. An MRA is published at intersections defined by a crossing radial or bearing that cannot be received at the MEA of the route.

MRA on Charts

MRAs are depicted on IFR en route charts as “MRA XXXX” at the relevant intersection. The pilot must be at or above the MRA to reliably receive the cross-bearing required to identify the intersection. Operating below the MRA means the intersection cannot be positively identified.

Related Terms

See also: MEA, Designated Intersection, Intersection.