Pressure Altitude Calculator

Using the Pressure Altitude Calculator

The Pressure Altitude Calculator is a useful tool for pilots and aviation enthusiasts to determine the pressure altitude and the pressure correction factor based on field elevation and altimeter settings. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you use this calculator effectively.

Step 1: Input Field Elevation

Begin by entering the field elevation into the calculator. This value represents the height above sea level of your current location. Ensure that this value is within the valid range of -1000 to 30000 feet. Input the elevation as a whole number without any decimals.

• Field: Field Elevation (feet)
• Placeholder: Enter field elevation
• Validation: Required, Min: -1000, Max: 30000, Step: 1

Step 2: Enter Altimeter Setting

Next, input the current altimeter setting. This measurement, often obtained from a weather station or air traffic control, is expressed in inches of mercury (inHg). Make sure the value you enter is between 28.0 and 31.0 inHg with an increment precision of 0.01.

• Field: Altimeter Setting (inHg)
• Placeholder: Enter altimeter setting
• Validation: Required, Min: 28.0, Max: 31.0, Step: 0.01

Step 3: Calculate Pressure Altitude

Once both the field elevation and the altimeter setting have been entered, the calculator will compute the pressure altitude. The calculation logic used is:

• Calculation: Pressure Altitude = Field Elevation + (29.92 – Altimeter Setting) * 1000

The result will be presented in feet with no decimal places.

Step 4: Determine Pressure Correction Factor

In addition to the pressure altitude, the calculator also computes the pressure correction factor. This represents the adjustment needed due to the difference between the standard and actual atmospheric pressure. The calculation logic is:

• Calculation: Pressure Correction Factor = (29.92 – Altimeter Setting) * 1000

This result is also shown in feet with no decimal places.

Conclusion

By following these straightforward steps, you are able to determine both the pressure altitude and the necessary pressure correction based on current atmospheric conditions. This tool is invaluable for aviation planning and safety checks.