Final answer:
A pilot climbing through the transition level is required to change the altimeter setting from the local pressure to the standard setting of 29.92 inches of mercury or 1013.25 hPa. This uniform setting above the transition altitude helps prevent altitude discrepancies among aircraft and is vital for maintaining flight safety.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a pilot is climbing through the transition level, they are required to change the altimeter setting from the local setting (QNH or local barometric pressure) to the standard pressure setting of 29.92 inches of mercury or 1013.25 hPa (hectopascals). This is because above the transition altitude, which leads up to the transition level, the airspace uses standard pressure to ensure uniform flight levels among aircraft and prevent vertical separation errors.
To perform this adjustment, pilots usually have a knob or buttons on their altimeter that allows them to easily adjust the pressure setting. This crucial step helps in maintaining accurate altitude readings throughout flights and is essential for flight safety.
It is important to note that the transition altitude and transition level can vary from one region to another and the pilot needs to be aware of the specific values for the airspace they are operating in.