Pivotal Altitude Calculator

Flying safely around a point requires precision. The pivotal altitude is the magic height where a ground feature looks stationary while you circle it. Pilots often ask: “How do I calculate pivotal altitude?” or “Is pivotal altitude AGL or MSL?” Our Pivotal Altitude Calculator helps you answer these questions in seconds.

This free online tool is designed for anyone from student pilots to seasoned aviators. You’ll get AGL and MSL values instantly, with clear calculation steps. Let’s dive in and see how it works.

What Is Pivotal Altitude?

Pivotal altitude is the height above ground level (AGL) at which a pilot can turn around a point while keeping the ground feature fixed in view.

Think of it like a merry-go-round. If you spin at the right distance, the central horse seems still. In aviation, the central point is the landmark, and the plane circles at a height where it appears fixed.

Key points:

• Measured above the ground (AGL).
• Used in FAA flight training, especially in turns around a point.
• Changes with your groundspeed — faster planes fly higher.

How Do You Calculate Pivotal Altitude?

The exact formula is simple physics:

Pivotal Altitude (AGL) = (Groundspeed²) ÷ Gravity

Where:

• Groundspeed is in feet per second (ft/s)
• Gravity is approximately 32.174 ft/s²

If you fly in knots, a handy shortcut is:

Pivotal Altitude (AGL, in feet) = (Groundspeed in knots)² ÷ 11.3

That’s why pilots often ask: “Why do we divide by 11.3 for pivotal altitude?” It comes from converting knots to ft/s and applying gravity.

Using the Pivotal Altitude Calculator

Our tool is simple and user-friendly:

1. Enter Groundspeed – in knots, mph, kph, or m/s.
2. Add Ground Elevation (optional) – in feet or meters.
3. Gravity Constant – leave as default unless you’re on another planet!
4. Click Calculate – instantly see your AGL and MSL pivotal altitude.

It even shows step-by-step calculations, so you can understand how the result was reached. No surprises, no guessing.

Formula in Simple Words

Here’s a real-world example:

• Groundspeed = 90 knots
• Gravity = 32.174 ft/s²

Step 1: Convert knots to ft/s: 90 × 1.68781 = 151.9 ft/s

Step 2: Apply formula: 151.9² ÷ 32.174 ≈ 718 ft AGL

If ground elevation = 50 ft, add it for MSL: 718 + 50 = 768 ft MSL

Easy, right? That’s exactly what our calculator does in milliseconds.

Final Verdict

If you fly around points or landmarks, knowing your pivotal altitude is critical. Our free Pivotal Altitude Calculator saves time, ensures safety, and is easy to use. Just enter your groundspeed, and the tool gives accurate AGL and MSL heights instantly.

With this calculator, you’ll never second-guess your turns again. Fly smart, calculate right, and stay safe.

FAQs About Pivotal Altitude

Is pivotal altitude AGL?

Yes. Pivotal altitude is always above the ground. If you want MSL, add ground elevation.

What is pivotal altitude FAA?

It’s the standard altitude students use in FAA turns around a point exercises.

Why divide by 11.3 for pivotal altitude?

The number comes from converting knots to feet per second and applying gravity in the formula.

Can I calculate pivotal altitude for any speed?

Yes. Our calculator accepts knots, mph, kph, ft/s, and m/s. It converts them automatically.