Precise altitude awareness is essential for maintaining terrain clearance, complying with ATC instructions, and optimizing flight levels. Altimeters feature durable, shock-mounted movements and optional encoding outputs for Mode S and ADS-B transponders. Traditional three-pointer styles offer easy-to-read single-pointer “drum” displays, while modern digital units can feature QNH/QFE presets and altitude alerting. Each overhauled or new unit ships with a current 8130-3 airworthiness certificate and a two-year warranty.
An encoding altimeter is a panel-mounted instrument that displays altitude to the pilot and sends encoded altitude data to the transponder. A blind encoder is a separate, remotely-mounted device that only provides encoded data to the transponder and has no visual display.
IFR Aircraft: Testing is required every 24 months under FAR 91.411
VFR Only: Testing is recommended but not mandated
Digital models offer unit selection while analog faces are fixed. A mechanical altimeter can be ordered with a “dual scale” displaying both units.
Yes, a new altimeter can affect your autopilot if the autopilot uses altitude data from your existing altimeter's encoder for functions like altitude hold. It is critical to verify compatibility between the new altimeter and your autopilot system before purchase. Contact us to confirm compatibility.
