FAA Ground School Practice Test

If an altimeter setting is not available before flight, to which altitude should the pilot adjust the altimeter?

1. The elevation of the departure area

2. The cruising altitude

3. Sea level

4. The maximum operating altitude

The correct answer is: The elevation of the departure area

When an altimeter setting is not available prior to takeoff, a pilot should adjust the altimeter to the elevation of the departure area. This means setting the altimeter to the local airport elevation, which is essential for ensuring the aircraft's altitude readings are accurate during takeoff and the initial climb. By doing so, the pilot ensures that the aircraft is operating at a safe altitude above the ground and clears any obstacles in the vicinity of the departure airport. Adjusting the altimeter to the cruising altitude or sea level would not be appropriate, as these settings do not consider the actual elevation of the locality where the flight is beginning. The maximum operating altitude does not apply since that relates to the highest altitude the aircraft can reach and does not provide the necessary information for takeoff. Therefore, adjusting the altimeter to the elevation of the departure area is critical for safe operation right from the start of the flight.