Private Pilot Private Exam

What is indicated altitude affected by when transitioning between different pressure systems?

1. Temperature changes

2. Altitude adjustments

3. Flight speed variations

4. Aircraft weight

The correct answer is: Temperature changes

Indicated altitude is affected by temperature changes due to the relationship between altitude and atmospheric pressure. As you transition between different pressure systems, the standard pressure used for altimeter settings may differ from the actual atmospheric pressure. If the temperature is warmer than standard atmospheric conditions, the actual altitude can be higher than the indicated altitude because warm air is less dense than cold air, causing the altimeter to read lower than the true altitude. Conversely, if the temperature is cooler than standard, the indicated altitude will be higher than the true altitude since the air is denser. This principle is critical for pilots to understand, as it influences how they interpret the altitude readings on their instruments, especially when flying in areas with significant temperature variations or transitioning between different pressure systems.