Altitude vs. Height

In his June 2014 article, Know Your Height AGL, Frank Bowlin explained the potential uses of a radar altimeter. As I read that, I reflected on my airline days where we used a pressure altimeter set to read our height above the airport. In contrast to costs of many thousands of dollars for a radar altimeter, some of the same-and critical-benefits can be had for a thousand dollars or less by purchasing and installing an altimeter dedicated to read QFE, or height above the airport. Sometimes QFE is even better.

Editorial Staff

Monday, August 25, 2014 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

A dedicated QFE (height above aerodrome) altimeter offers a cost-effective and often more reliable alternative to radar altimeters for pilots needing accurate height above airport (AGL) information.
By displaying zero at touchdown and directly indicating AGL, QFE altimeters simplify situational awareness for critical flight phases like pattern altitude, descent, and cloud clearance, reducing mental workload.
While standard altimeters have adjustment range limitations at high-elevation airports, older models with a "mask" instead of stops can be sourced and modified for full QFE functionality.
Though intended for reference only and not regulatory minimums, QFE provides significant practical benefits, proving useful in various flight scenarios, including challenging approaches and emergencies.

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In his June 2014 article, “Know Your Height AGL,” Frank Bowlin explained the potential uses of a radar altimeter. As I read that, I reflected on my airline days where we used a pressure altimeter set to read our height above the airport. In contrast to costs of many thousands of dollars for a radar altimeter, some of the same—and critical—benefits can be had for a thousand dollars or less by purchasing and installing an altimeter dedicated to read QFE, or height above the airport. Sometimes QFE is even better.