In what scenario would a pilot look for MSA?

The correct scenario for looking for Minimum Safe Altitude (MSA) is during an emergency descent situation. MSA provides pilots with guidance on the lowest altitude that will guarantee safe clearance above obstacles in the area, ensuring a measure of safety during challenging conditions.

In an emergency descent, a pilot may need to quickly descend to a safe altitude while avoiding obstacles and ensuring safe navigation. The MSA is crucial in this circumstance, as it helps pilots determine a safe altitude in real-time, allowing them to manage the descent effectively without compromising safety.

While MSA can be relevant during other phases of flight, such as approaches or if turbulence is encountered, those situations typically allow for better situational awareness and planning, unlike the immediate and urgent nature of an emergency descent, where quick decisions are critical.