Pressure Altitude - What it is and Why it is Used

In this video I describe what is Pressure Altitude and why it is needed. Pressure Altitude is True Altitude corrected for non-standard pressure. We need to know Pressure Altitude so that we can utilize the takeoff and landing, and cruise performance charts in the aircraft's Pilot Operating Handbook. In this video I show how to calculate Pressure Altitude. I also discuss why it is important to update the Altimeter's Kollsman Window with the latest local Barometric pressure value to ensure the aircraft continues to fly at the same pressure altitude. As the saying goes, high to low, watch out below!

[@FalconImagery]

Please note that in the first example, I meant to show/say 29.42", not 28.42", which gives the 0.5 result/500'.

[@johnsmithh662]

lol, I was just staring at that wondering what the math was. Good video

[@mateocaicedo282]

that last example is absolutely priceless 💡

[@nimbapilot6925]

Thanks for the video. Really helpful. The only thing I would add to eliminate some confusion is that you alway keep standing pressure 29.92 on top when you are adding or subtracting from current pressure setting. For example, in the second example: it should be 29.92 - 30.42; which should yield-.5 x1000= - 500. This should tell you that you need to substrate this number from your field elevation and altitude you planned to cruise.

[@kaushikccu]

I've been having trouble grasping how this whole pressure altitude thing relates to real-world scenarios. Thanks so much for this simple and vivid explanation, very helpful. This will totally help with my upcoming FAA written test as well!

[@FalconImagery]

Glad to hear I was of some help.

[@kawinter123]

This was an easy trick that was helpful to me to calculate and be sure you get the addition or subtraction correct... Start with standard pressure at the top of the calculation(don't put the larger number at the top of your calc). For example, 29.92-30.42=-.5(x100=-500), subtract 500 from field elevation or cruise altitude. 29.92-29.42=.5(x1000=500), add 500 to field elevation or cruise altitude.

[@AaronWbirdman]

Very good thanks!

[@FalconImagery]

Thank you too!

[@Johnny-Michael]

Thank you for this video, it was very helpful.

[@FalconImagery]

Glad I could be of help.

[@Adam-hx1gw]

Incredibly helpful

[@FalconImagery]

Glad you found it helpful.

[@viralviralviralvideo]

Thanks

[@jaywildeman3403]

EX 1 So, 29.92 - 28.42 = 500 ? My calculator says 1.5. Please explain.

[@FalconImagery]

Damn! Yes, I made a mistake. I meant to show/say 29.42", not 28.42". I will have to make a note about that.