Max on-the-ground difference between pilot and copilot altitude displays (sea level to 5000')

• A. 40 feet
• B. 50 feet
• C. 70 feet
• D. 60 feet

Answer: (D)

On the ground, both altitude displays must agree within a defined tolerance so that both pilots read essentially the same altitude during taxi and coordination. For sea level to 5000 feet, the allowable difference between the pilot’s altimeter display and the copilot’s altimeter display on the P-8A is 60 feet. This limit balances typical instrument error and pressure-setting variations with the need to keep both pilots’ readings consistent, reducing confusion or miscommunication during ground operations. Differences smaller than this are within spec, while exceeding it would indicate a fault or miscalibration that requires attention.