Remove Altimeter Remove Density Altitude Remove Lift
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How to Calculate Density Altitude (Without a Math Degree)

Pilot Institute

Calculating density altitude is like filing your taxes; annoying and often neglected until the last minute, but crucially important. Why is density altitude critical to ensuring safety, what factors affect it, and how is it calculated? Today is the day that the mystery of density altitude is solved.

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Air pressure and density

Professional Pilot

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). Every pilot knows that aircraft fly because the forces of lift and thrust balance or exceed the weight and drag countering them.

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Accident Briefs—July 2025

Plane and Pilot

A witness reported that they saw the airplane lift off from the runway and remain in ground effect until it crossed the departure end of the runway. Investigators noted at the time of the accident the temperature was 30 degrees Celsius, the dew point was 4 C, and the altimeter setting was 29.98. He had no further memory of the event.

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Mastering Short Field Landings (A Step-by-Step Guide)

Pilot Institute

Temperature An increase in temperature will increase the density altitude. A high density altitude decreases the performance of the engine and the wing. Your aircraft will fly at a faster true airspeed at higher density altitudes. Start by calculating the pressure altitude. Consult your POH.