FAA Aircraft Dispatcher Practice Exam

What altitude does pressure altitude represent?

1. Altitude corrected for temperature

2. Actual altitude above sea level

3. Pressure at sea level

4. The height above current ground level

The correct answer is: Altitude corrected for temperature

Pressure altitude represents the altitude of an aircraft based on a standard atmospheric pressure reference rather than the actual altitude above sea level. It is specifically determined by correcting the altitude for non-standard temperature conditions, allowing for a uniform comparison across different atmospheric conditions. When an aircraft's altitude is measured, it is often in reference to air pressure using the standard atmospheric pressure of 29.92 inches of mercury (Hg) at sea level. If the atmospheric pressure is higher or lower than this standard, the indicated altitude needs to be corrected to reflect the actual pressure altitude accurately. This is why it's stated that pressure altitude is altitude corrected for temperature; it provides a way to assess aircraft performance and ensure safety by accounting for variations in temperature and pressure which can affect lift and engine performance. This concept is crucial in aviation, as it helps pilots and dispatchers determine the appropriate altitudes for safe aircraft operation, particularly when transitioning through different air density zones.