Altimeter

Altimeter

What is an Altimeter?

How Altimeters Guide Aviation Navigation

An instrument used to measure the altitude of an object above a fixed level.

An altimeter is an instrument used in aircraft to measure altitude, the vertical distance above a fixed reference point, usually sea level.

• Types and Mechanisms: There are different types of altimeters, such as the aneroid altimeter, which uses changes in atmospheric pressure to calculate altitude, and the radar altimeter, which uses radio waves.
• Pilot Use: Pilots rely on altimeters for safe navigation, particularly when flying at low altitudes, during approach and landing, and when flying in mountainous regions.
• Calibration and Accuracy: Altimeters require regular calibration to ensure accuracy, as air pressure can vary with weather conditions.

The altimeter is a fundamental instrument in aviation, crucial for ensuring that aircraft maintain a safe vertical distance from terrain and other obstacles.