What is the primary purpose of an altimeter in aviation?

The primary purpose of an altimeter in aviation is to measure and display the aircraft's altitude. This instrument is crucial for pilots because it provides vital information about how high the aircraft is flying above sea level or ground level, which is essential for maintaining safe separation from terrain, other aircraft, and for complying with air traffic control instructions.

Altimeters typically rely on changes in air pressure; as an aircraft ascends or descends, the atmospheric pressure changes, and the altimeter interprets these changes to determine altitude. Accurate altitude readings are critical for flight safety, especially during takeoff, landing, and when flying in crowded airspace.

Understanding altitude is foundational for navigation and operational functions in aviation, making the altimeter a key instrument in a pilot's suite.