Question

Pilots should use the local altimeter setting because it provides

Answer 1

Pilots use the local altimeter setting to get the most accurate altitude reading above the airport elevation, which is crucial for maintaining the safety of takeoffs and landings. The local setting accounts for variations in air pressure due to weather and regional differences. Incorrect settings can result in altitude discrepancies, posing a risk during flight operations.

Step-by-step explanation:

Pilots should use the local altimeter setting because it provides the most accurate altitude reading relative to the airport elevation, which is essential for safe takeoffs and landings. Essentially, an altimeter is a device that measures altitude, which is the height above sea level. However, because air pressure varies with weather conditions and regional altitudes, the altimeter needs to be adjusted to the local air pressure at field elevation, which is known as the local altimeter setting.

When pilots use the altimeter setting broadcast by a nearby airport or air traffic control, they ensure their altimeters reflect the true altitude above that airport's runway. In areas where a local altimeter setting is not available, they may use a standard setting, but this can lead to inaccuracies, particularly when flying at lower altitudes where the difference between the pressure at the actual location and the standard pressure used in the altimeter setting can cause significant discrepancies in indicated altitude.

For example, imagine an airport located at 200 feet above sea level. If a pilot uses an incorrect altimeter setting that underestimates the local air pressure, the altimeter might mistakenly indicate that the aircraft is at a higher altitude than it really is, which could lead to a dangerously low approach or even an undershoot during landing.

Answer 2

Pilots should use the local altimeter setting because it provides accurate and standardized altitude readings based on the local atmospheric pressure.

Step-by-step explanation:

The local altimeter setting is crucial for accurate altitude readings during flight. The altimeter measures aircraft altitude by comparing atmospheric pressure at the aircraft's current location to a standardized pressure level (29.92 inches of mercury at sea level). The local altimeter setting adjusts the altimeter to reflect the current atmospheric pressure at the airport or location of departure, providing pilots with accurate altitude information. This is essential for maintaining safe vertical separation between aircraft, especially during approaches and departures. Using a standardized setting ensures that all aircraft in the area reference their altitude from a consistent baseline, promoting safe and efficient air traffic management.