What is the proper cruising altitude for IFR and VFR aircraft above 3000 feet AGL based on aircraft track?

The proper cruising altitude guidelines for aircraft flying under IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) and VFR (Visual Flight Rules) above 3,000 feet AGL (Above Ground Level) are based on the direction of the aircraft's track. For aircraft flying on a magnetic course from 000 to 179 degrees, they should maintain an altitude at odd thousands of feet.

This system is established to enhance the safety and efficiency of air traffic by ensuring that aircraft flying in opposite directions maintain vertical separation. By assigning odd thousands of feet to tracks between north and east (000-179 degrees) and even thousands of feet to those during west and south (180-359 degrees), this creates a structured system that helps prevent mid-air collisions and optimizes airspace utilization.

Thus, for aircraft flying between 000 and 179 degrees magnetic course, the guidance to use odd thousands feet (e.g., 3,000, 5,000, 7,000, etc.) is the correct approach to follow while maintaining appropriate separation from other aircraft navigating through the same airspace.