What is the maximum distance between the departure airport and the designated takeoff alternate for CRJ200?

• A. 180 nautical miles
• B. 200 nautical miles
• C. 220 nautical miles
• D. 250 nautical miles

Answer: (B)

When planning IFR flights, you must have a designated takeoff alternate within reach from the departure so you can divert if the destination becomes unusable after takeoff. This reach is determined by the aircraft’s performance and the fuel plan, ensuring you can climb, cruise, and still hold reserves even in an engine-out scenario.

For the CRJ200, the published maximum distance from the departure to the designated takeoff alternate is 200 nautical miles. This limit provides a safe, practical margin to reach an alternate with the standard fuel plan under typical conditions. Distances longer than that would push beyond the guaranteed fuel margin, while shorter distances (like 180 NM) are within reach but do not represent the maximum planning limit.