Aerodrome Elevation (or Field Elevation)

Aerodrome elevation (also called field elevation) is the elevation of the highest point of the landing area of an aerodrome, measured above mean sea level (MSL). It is expressed in feet and published in the Canada Flight Supplement (CFS) for each aerodrome.

Why It Matters

Aerodrome elevation is used to verify altimeter accuracy on the ground. With the current altimeter setting (QNH) set in the Kollsman window, the altimeter should read the published field elevation ± 75 ft. It also factors into density altitude calculations, which affect takeoff and landing performance.

On the TC Written Exam

Field elevation is the highest point of the landing area — not the elevation of any buildings or obstacles on the aerodrome. The on-the-ground altimeter check against field elevation is a standard pre-flight procedure and is tested on both PPL and CPL written exams.

Related Terms

See also: Altimeter, Altimeter Setting, Density Altitude.