flight instrumentsFAA-published question bank (Private Pilot, 2008)
Under what condition is indicated altitude the same as true altitude?
A
If the altimeter has no mechanical error.
B
When at sea level under standard conditions.✓ Correct Answer
C
When at 18,000 feet MSL with the altimeter set at 29.92.
Explanation
The altimeter is calibrated to the standard atmosphere, so indicated altitude equals true altitude only when standard conditions exist, for example at sea level under standard conditions. An error-free instrument still misreads in nonstandard air, and setting 29.92 at 18,000 feet gives pressure altitude.
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