Question with altimeter reading from ATC.

[Goatman24 2]

I like using the stock ATC with FSX and have a question regarding an altimeter reading that is mentioned after connecting with a new contact. Example = "United 209, Mansfield Approach, roger, Altimeter 3006." That reading of 3006 seems to be used quite a bit and I don't understand what it's referring to as it certainly isn't where I'm at. It seems to be the same coming from other locations as well. 

 

Thanks

[BIGSKY 316]

http://asrs.arc.nasa.gov/publications/directline/dl9_low.htm

[SteveW 1,792]

the weather system you are using sets the bar

[stans 705]

The number is barometric pressure, so 3006 is 30.06 inches mercury.  You use this information to correct your altimeter.

[Don t moderate me this way 882]

The number is barometric pressure, so 3006 is 30.06 inches mercury.  You use this information to correct your altimeter.

 

 

 

... which boils down to the fact that it's neither an altitude nor a flight level.

 

ATC is wanting you to dial this number in as your pressure setting. Easiest way to do that is hitting "b" on your keyboard. With the correct pressure setting, your altitude reads correct, too.

[TXHills 17]

If you are using FSX weather verify that you have real world weather with 15 min updates in effect

 

If you are flying on a server like VATME or VATSIM verify you have that server's weather active - if not, you may experience descrepancies between your weather (including altimiter) and everyone else's weather.

 

Pull up the sectional or high altitude chart from the nearest facility at http://skyvector.com/airports - there will be little blue and green 'pins' in the map - hover your mouse pointer over the one you want and you can read the METAR for that facility and verify you are getting current information (expect some variation due to timing but unless conditions are changing rapidly things should be fairly close).

 

Remember - if you are at or above FL180 (Class A airspace) your altimiter should be at standard pressure - 29.92 in Hg.  All flights in Class A airspace use pressure altitude, not actual altitude.

[Goatman24 2]

OK, now I understand. The basics at least. Now it makes sense.

 

Thanks for the information.