Which instrument measures static pressure and indicates barometric height in feet?

• A. Standby Altimeter
• B. Vertical Speed Indicator
• C. Air Data Computer
• D. Primary Altimeter

Answer: (A)

The correct instrument that measures static pressure and indicates barometric height in feet is primarily the primary altimeter. The primary altimeter uses the static pressure from the atmosphere to determine altitude. It is calibrated to read altitude in reference to a standard atmospheric pressure at sea level.

When the static pressure decreases, it indicates an increase in altitude, and the altimeter reflects that by showing a higher barometric height in feet. This instrument is crucial for pilots to maintain proper altitude during flight, ensuring safe vertical separation from other aircraft and terrain.

In contrast, the standby altimeter serves as a backup to the primary altimeter but functions under the same principles. The vertical speed indicator measures the rate of ascent or descent rather than static pressure or altitude directly, and the air data computer processes multiple parameters including airspeed and altitude, but it does not directly provide a barometric height reading in the conventional sense as the altimeter does. Thus, while the standby altimeter is indeed a secondary source for altitude, the primary altimeter is the quintessential instrument that measures static pressure to provide barometric height in feet.