How to select a cruise altitude?
Asked by: Barrett 9641 views Aerodynamics, Airspace, Commercial Pilot, General Aviation, Instrument Rating, Private Pilot, Student Pilot
I fully understand how to select an appropriate altitude based on eastbound vs westbound, VFR vs IFR, and obstacle clearance, but what about beyond that? Say I am planning an easbound VFR flight. How should I choose between 5,500, 7,500, 9,500, etc.? I'm sure wind reports play a big factor, but what about the operating efficiency of the engine? Or a higher altitude giving you more time and options in the event of an engine failure (or trapping you in the plane for a longer period of time if there is a fire)?
The following terms have been auto-detected the question above and any answers or discussion provided. Click on a term to see its definition from the Dauntless Aviation JargonBuster Glossary.