What altitude should VFR cruise altitudes start at?

VFR cruise altitudes should start at 3000 feet AGL (Above Ground Level). This altitude provides a safe separation from the ground, allowing pilots to maintain sufficient clearance over obstacles, terrain, and other potential hazards. It also ensures that pilots have an adequate altitude margin for avoiding turbulence near the surface, as well as better visibility for navigating and spotting other aircraft.

Starting at 3000 feet AGL also works well in conjunction with standard VFR cruising altitudes, which are based on a system that assigns odd altitudes for aircraft flying at altitudes from 3000 feet and above in a northbound direction, and even altitudes for southbound flights. This systematic approach to cruising altitudes promotes safe vertical separation among aircraft flying in the same or adjacent airspace, reducing the risk of mid-air collisions.

While 1000 AGL is too low for a general cruising altitude, as it exposes the aircraft to ground hazards and may not provide a sufficient margin for safety in various operational conditions, the other altitudes are similarly either below the recommended level for cruising or do not align with standard practices for VFR operations. Therefore, starting cruise altitudes at 3000 AGL establishes a better foundation for safe flying.