What happens to the altimeter if it is not properly calibrated?

If an altimeter is not properly calibrated, it can lead to incorrect altitude readings. The calibration of an altimeter is essential because it ensures that the instrument accurately reflects the current atmospheric pressure corresponding to a specific altitude. When the atmospheric pressure changes, which can occur due to weather variations or changes in altitude, the altimeter must be adjusted accordingly to maintain accuracy.

An improperly calibrated altimeter may display misleading altitude information, which can have serious consequences during flight operations. For instance, if a pilot thinks they are at a safe altitude based on inaccurate readings, it could lead to dangerous situations such as flying too low without realizing it or not complying with required altitude assignments, increasing the risk of collision with terrain or other aircraft.

Thus, ensuring that the altimeter is calibrated correctly is crucial for safe navigation and operational accuracy. This context underscores the importance of periodic checks and adjustments, especially before flight, to ensure that the instrument is providing reliable data.