Final answer:
Indicated Altitude is the reading from an altimeter set to the local barometric pressure. Army aviators use it to maintain proper flight level, ensure safety, and comply with altitude restrictions. It's essential for navigating and executing low altitude maneuvers in various weather conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Indicated Altitude is a critical concept in aviation, particularly for Army aviators. It refers to the altitude read directly from the altimeter (an instrument on the aircraft) when it is set to the current local barometric pressure at mean sea level. Since this altitude is sensitive to changes in atmospheric pressure, it may not always represent the true altitude above sea level. For an Army aviator, understanding and using the indicated altitude is vital for several reasons such as ensuring the aircraft is at the correct height for a given phase of flight, maintaining separation from other aircraft, and flying legally within the parameters of altitude restrictions.
Moreover, for Army aviation operations which often include low altitude tactical maneuvers, precision in altitude reading and terrain clearance is of paramount importance for safety and mission success. Hence, piloting an aircraft necessitates constant awareness and adjustment of the indicated altitude to factor in pressure changes and to navigate effectively in diverse weather conditions and terrains.