QFE

QFE

What is QFE?

How to Use QFE in Aviation

QFE is a vital aviation term that refers to the local atmospheric pressure at an airfield, used to set an aircraft's altimeter for accurate altitude readings above the airport surface. Essential for precision in altitude measurement, safety during takeoff and landing, and enhanced situational awareness.

What is QFE?

QFE is the atmospheric pressure measured at an airport's elevation or location. It is fundamental in ensuring accurate altitude readings for pilots during takeoff, landing, and while manoeuvring near the airport. This measurement is vital for the safety and efficiency of aircraft operations, particularly in private aviation, where precision is paramount.

How QFE Works

When pilots set their altimeter to the QFE setting of the airport, the altimeter will read zero when the aircraft is on the runway or at the specific location for which the QFE value is given. This setting allows pilots to accurately determine their altitude above the airport's surface, which is crucial for approaches, landings, and avoiding terrain or obstacles.

The Importance of QFE in Aviation

1. Precision in Altitude Measurement: By using QFE, pilots can precisely measure their altitude above the airport's surface. This is particularly important when flying in challenging weather conditions or when operating in mountainous areas where accurate altitude readings can prevent accidents.
2. Safety During Takeoff and Landing: QFE settings ensure that pilots have accurate altitude information relative to the airport's elevation. This information is critical during the most vulnerable phases of flight: takeoff and landing.
3. Enhanced Situational Awareness: Pilots using QFE can better understand their spatial orientation relative to the airport's terrain. This enhances situational awareness and contributes to safer flight operations.
4. Compliance with Local Procedures: In some regions, air traffic control (ATC) mandates using QFE for landing and departing aircraft. Pilots must adjust their altimeter settings to comply with these procedures.

How to Use QFE

Using QFE involves setting the altimeter to the QFE pressure setting provided by the airport or ATC. This setting differs from QNH, which is the atmospheric pressure adjusted to sea level, and pilots need to be proficient in switching between these settings based on the phase of flight and ATC instructions.

1. Pre-flight Preparation: Pilots receive the QFE setting from the airport's ATIS (Automatic Terminal Information Service) or directly from ATC.
2. Altimeter Adjustment: The pilot adjusts the altimeter setting to the QFE value before landing or after takeoff.
3. Altitude Readings: With the QFE set, the altimeter directly shows the aircraft's altitude above the airport's surface, facilitating precise altitude management.

QFE vs. QNH: Understanding the Difference

It's essential to distinguish between QFE and QNH. While QFE refers to the pressure at the airfield surface, allowing pilots to read altitude relative to the airport, QNH adjusts the pressure reading to sea level, enabling pilots to measure altitude above mean sea level (AMSL). Understanding the difference and knowing when to use each setting is a critical skill in aviation.

QFE is a fundamental aspect of aviation that ensures the accuracy and safety of flight operations, especially in private jet operations where precision is critical. By enabling pilots to measure their altitude accurately above the airport elevation, QFE contributes to safer takeoffs, landings, and overall flight awareness. As such, understanding and utilizing QFE is indispensable for pilots, enhancing their ability to navigate the skies safely and efficiently.