Pressure Altitude Calculator
Compare a field elevation with the 29.92 inHg reference using an educational rule of thumb.
A QUICK WALKTHROUGH
How to use this tool
- Field elevation (ft) / Altimeter setting (inHg)
- Enter field elevation from −1,000 to 15,000 ft and altimeter setting from 28 to 31 inHg.
- Calculate
Model and limits
PA ≈ field elevation + (29.92 − setting) × 1,000 ft. The pressure input is a sea-level-reduced altimeter setting, not station pressure. Input limits are teaching limits, not a universal weather range. The linear rule is approximate; no weather profile, instrument error, aircraft performance, or flight decision is evaluated.
Reference: FAA Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge
Reference: FAA Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge: https://www.faa.gov/sites/default/files/2022-03/pilot_handbook.pdf
GOOD TO KNOW
Common questions
Can I use this for a flight decision?
No. This educational approximation cannot replace approved aircraft performance data, current weather, or operational procedures.