Density Altitude Calculator
Calculate density altitude based on pressure altitude, temperature, and dew point. Essential for aviation performance planning.
Published by:
isCalculator Editorial Team
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How to use this tool?
How to Use the Density Altitude Calculator
- Enter Pressure Altitude (ft): Input the altitude from your altimeter set to 29.92 inHg (standard pressure). Must be a non-negative number.
- Enter Temperature (°F): Provide the current outside air temperature in degrees Fahrenheit.
- Enter Dew Point (°F): Input the dew point temperature in degrees Fahrenheit. It must be less than or equal to the temperature.
- Click "Calculate" or press Enter: The calculator will compute the density altitude in feet.
- Read the Result: The output shows the approximate density altitude, which indicates how the aircraft will perform (higher = poorer performance).
Note: All inputs must be in imperial units (feet and °F). The formula is an approximation for general aviation use.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Density altitude is the altitude relative to the standard atmosphere conditions at which the air density would be equal to the indicated air density at the place of observation. It is used in aviation to assess aircraft performance.
A common approximation is: DA = PA + 120 × (T - 15 + (DP - 15) × 0.2), where PA is pressure altitude in feet, T is temperature in °F, and DP is dew point in °F.
Higher density altitude reduces aircraft performance, including lift, engine power, and propeller efficiency. Pilots use it to determine takeoff and landing distances.