Absolute Altitude Density Altitude True Altitude 
Thrust Flight
DECEMBER 4, 2024
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?
Pilot Institute
FEBRUARY 1, 2025
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. Indicated altitude is mainly used for aircraft separation and standard operating procedures.
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