Density Altitude Drag Indicated Airspeed 
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). Every pilot knows that aircraft fly because the forces of lift and thrust balance or exceed the weight and drag countering them.
Flight Training Central
JANUARY 15, 2024
But remember high density altitude reduces performance and therefore increases takeoff rolls, and degrades climb performance. Once the brakes are released as the airplane accelerates, adjust the airplane’s pitch to attain minimum drag and maximum acceleration. Check airspeed indicator (“airspeed alive”).
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