Airfoil Clearance Density Altitude 
Professional Pilot
JULY 7, 2025
By Karsten Shein Comm-Inst Climate Scientist QNE, QNH, and QFE describe different altitudes for different phases of flight, but also serve as pressure altitude (QNE) or density altitude (QNH). Conversely, lower density reduces drag, because the aircraft surface encounters fewer molecules.
Plane and Pilot
OCTOBER 3, 2024
The airfoil is a Harry Riblett shape, giving modernized flow separation on the leading edge for a soft stall yet with good lift and drag performance. It was 87° F, a density altitude of 7300 feet and we ended up with four people, 120 gallons plus baggage, and we got off in 2400 feet with naturally aspirated engines.
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