Density Altitude

Density altitude is the altitude in the standard atmosphere corresponding to a particular value of air density. It is determined by applying an ambient temperature correction to the pressure altitude. A higher density altitude results in a decrease in air density, which markedly reduces engine power output and degrades aircraft take-off and climb performance.

Key Points

• •Density altitude is determined by correcting outside air temperature against pressure altitude.
• •An increase in temperature reduces air density and engine power output.
• •Every 1°C variation from ISA conditions is equivalent to approximately a 120 ft variation in density altitude.

Related Terms