Must you use a 10:1 obstacle ratio for the left and right sides of your PZ/LZ?

The correct response indicates that a 10:1 obstacle ratio is not mandatory for both sides of the PZ/LZ (Pick-Up Zone/Landing Zone). While understanding the concept of obstacle ratios is key, this ratio mainly serves as a guideline to ensure safe operations during air assaults by allowing helicopters to avoid obstacles during takeoff and landing phases.

In practical terms, the 10:1 ratio means that for every 10 units of distance from the edge of the PZ/LZ, the allowable height of obstacles is one unit. However, the application of this ratio can be flexible based on operational requirements and the specific mission context. In some cases, factors such as the type of aircraft being used, the skill level of the pilots, and environmental considerations might influence whether this guideline needs to be strictly adhered to on both sides.

Other options suggest varying conditions or scenarios under which the ratio might need to be applied or not apply at all, but the correct interpretation focuses on the fact that the 10:1 ratio is not uniformly required on both sides of the PZ/LZ under all circumstances. The operational planning should address these requirements based on the unique attributes and constraints of the mission at hand.