Altitude

The height of a level, point, or object measured in feet Above Ground Level (AGL) or from Mean Sea Level (MSL). (See FLIGHT LEVEL.)
  1. MSL Altitude- Altitude expressed in feet measured from mean sea level.
  2. AGL Altitude- Altitude expressed in feet measured above ground level.
  3. Indicated Altitude- The altitude as shown by an altimeter. On a pressure or barometric altimeter it is altitude as shown uncorrected for instrument error and uncompensated for variation from standard atmospheric conditions.

Source: FAA Pilot/Controller Glossary (definition from the 2023 edition; current: Change 1 of 7 August 2025).

See also

Related terms

Glossary last updated 2026-10-28.

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