Extended Abstract (196K)P3.17
A Study of Barometric Altimeter Errors in High Latitude Regions
Young Yee, Mkey Technologies, LLC, Las Cruces, NM; and E. Yee
Present day barometric altimeters calculate atmospheric heights by assuming the ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) Standard Atmosphere, which is an average, piece-wise continuous, mid-latitude temperature profile of the earth's atmosphere. The ICAO temperature profile has been used in the aviation field for over 30 years. Nevertheless, seasonal changes in conjunction with latitudinal variations can produce temperature profiles that can significantly differ from the ICAO standard atmosphere, especially for geographical regions located at high latitudes during winter seasons. This study investigates altimeter errors that occur due to cold temperatures at high latitude locations. If the temperature profile is colder than the standard atmosphere, the altimeter will read an altitude that is higher than the true altitude of the aircraft. These errors are very critical in mountainous terrain areas. Climatological temperature profiles from a high latitude region will be used to conduct an altimeter error analysis. The case study will highlight key issues in using barometric altimeters in these situations and help identify problem areas. Recommendations on improving or enhancing current barometric altimeter operations will be discussed and future studies will be outlined.
Poster Session 3, Turbulence, Volcanic Ash, and Instrumentation Posters
Wednesday, 23 January 2008, 2:30 PM-4:00 PM, Exhibit Hall B
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