QFE (Field Elevation Pressure)

QFE (Field Elevation Pressure) refers to the atmospheric pressure at a specific airfield's elevation, used to set an altimeter to read zero when on the ground, indicating height above that airfield.

What it is

• QFE is a specific type of altimeter setting.
• It's the atmospheric pressure at the airfield's elevation.
• Setting the altimeter to QFE causes it to read zero when the aircraft is on the ground.
• After takeoff, the altimeter will then display height above that airfield.

Why it's used

• QFE is particularly useful for circuit operations and landing.
• It simplifies altitude awareness for pilots flying around an airfield.
• It ensures that pilots can maintain a precise height above the ground during approach and landing.

Historical Context

• QFE, along with other Q-codes, originated in the early 20th century.
• These codes were developed to facilitate the transmission of information using Morse code.
• The "Q" in QFE stands for "Query".
• QFE was originally used to indicate the atmospheric pressure at a specific location, like an airfield.

QFE vs. QNH

• QNH (Local Altimeter Setting) is the atmospheric pressure adjusted to mean sea level for a specific location.
• QFE, on the other hand, is the atmospheric pressure at the airfield's elevation.
• Using QNH, the altimeter will display altitude above mean sea level, while QFE displays height above the airfield.