Pressure altitude

Pressure altitude is the height above a specific standard atmospheric pressure level, typically where the pressure is 29.92 inches of mercury (1013 hPa). It's a way pilots and aviation professionals measure altitude based on atmospheric pressure rather than actual ground elevation. As you go higher, pressure drops, so pressure altitude indicates how high you are relative to this standard pressure point, which helps in aviation navigation and performance calculations. Essentially, pressure altitude provides a consistent reference point for ensuring safety and accuracy during flights, especially when the actual ground elevation varies or weather conditions affect pressure readings.