Which statement about density altitude is correct?

• A. It is the current altitude above sea level
• B. It is the altitude corresponding to current air density
• C. It is the altitude where temperature is standard
• D. It is the maximum altitude for climb

Answer: (B)

Density altitude is the altitude in the standard atmosphere that would have the same air density as the air you’re actually experiencing. That’s why the statement describing density altitude as the altitude corresponding to current air density is the best choice. Air density is what affects engine power, prop thrust, and wing lift, so when the density altitude is higher than your true altitude (due to hot weather, low pressure, or high humidity), performance suffers; when it’s lower (cold air, high pressure), performance improves. It’s not simply the current altitude above sea level, nor the altitude where temperature is standard, nor the maximum altitude for climb.