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How To Calculate Density Altitude

Thrust Flight

In this article I’m going to teach you how to calculate density altitude. The earthbound among us have a very black-and-white view of altitude. There’s true altitude, indicated altitude, and absolute altitude! It’s just how high the airplane is flying, right?

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The 6 Types of Altitude in Aviation (Airplane Pilots)

Pilot Institute

Key Takeaways Pilots use six altitude types: Indicated, True, Absolute, Pressure, Density, and Flight Levels. Indicated altitude shows the altimeter reading, while true altitude refers to height above MSL. Absolute altitude measures height above ground, which is critical during approaches and landings.