Can ATC vector an aircraft below the Minimum Safe Altitude (MSA)?

The correct answer is that an air traffic controller (ATC) can vector an aircraft below the Minimum Safe Altitude (MSA) as long as the aircraft is above the Minimum Vectoring Altitude (MVA).

MVA is a specified altitude, established by ATC, that provides obstacle clearance in specific airspace, ensuring aircraft can safely maneuver without running into terrain or other obstructions. While MSA provides a general safe altitude, MVA is more relevant for the operational needs of ATC when providing vectors to aircraft. Therefore, as long as the aircraft is maintained above MVA, ATC can direct it below the MSA, as MVA is designed to ensure safety during vectoring procedures.

In this context, the other options are less applicable. Regulations do not prohibit ATC from vectoring below MSA if MVA guidelines are adhered to. Emergency circumstances and training exercises do not change the baseline requirement that ATC must ensure obstacle clearance, making MVA a pivotal consideration in all situations.