Originally Posted by
Bob Viking
I know it’s a divisive issue but I honestly think that, due to our expeditionary nature, it would make more sense to train pilots from day one that the runway is not always at zero feet. I know it’s easier that way but I think it is setting people up for failure. And apart from your downwind height in the circuit (and a check halfway round finals if you’re being good) when do (should) you actually look at the altimeter in training versus looking out the window anyway? If we’re talking stepdown heights and DA’s then what difference does it make if you read the bold face or non-bold face numbers on the approach plate? As long as you look at the correct one.
BV
Ever since a I flew from Denham I realised how easy it was to mentally 'convert' to QNH.
Denham's elevation was 249ft + circuit height 750 ft = altitude 1,000ft; much easier to read that on your altimeter.