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What does indicated altitude represent?

The altitude above the lowest terrain

The altitude shown on the altimeter after setting it

Indicated altitude represents the altitude shown on the altimeter after setting it to the current local altimeter pressure setting. When a pilot adjusts the altimeter to the local pressure setting (usually obtained from the air traffic control or ATIS), the altimeter's needle points to the altitude corresponding to the atmospheric pressure at that location. This is critical for maintaining safe separation from terrain and obstacles, as well as ensuring proper altitude reporting to air traffic control.

While other concepts such as true altitude and pressure altitude are important in aviation, indicated altitude is specifically concerned with the reading provided on the altimeter itself after the appropriate adjustments for local atmospheric pressure. The correct interpretation of indicated altitude is essential for effective navigation and compliance with altitude regulations during flight.

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The altitude adjusted for standard pressure

The true altitude above sea level

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