Pressure altitude
Pressure altitude is the altitude corresponding to an atmospheric pressure referenced to the standard atmosphere. It is a pressure reference, not a direct measurement of distance above the ground.
Reviewed 05.10.2026 · Version 2 · Scope: General
How to interpret it
It is used in aviation information and performance calculations alongside other variables. Actual conditions may differ from the standard atmosphere, so other altitude terms represent different concepts.
Example
Hypothetical example: two places at different elevations may have pressure conditions that produce a different relationship between geometric altitude and pressure altitude. No instrument adjustment is proposed here.
Why it matters to you
It helps readers understand aviation terminology and identify the reference for a figure before using it in a comparison.
Common points of confusion
It is neither height above terrain nor density altitude. This entry provides no instructions for instrument adjustment, separation, or navigation.
Documentary sources
Related concepts
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