What is qfe

Last updated: April 1, 2026

Quick Answer: QFE is a barometric pressure measurement used in aviation, representing the atmospheric pressure at an airfield's elevation and used for altitude reference during approach and landing procedures.

Key Facts

Understanding QFE in Aviation

QFE is a critical atmospheric pressure measurement in aviation that represents the barometric pressure at the airfield's elevation. Unlike QNH, which provides sea-level corrected pressure, QFE gives pilots the actual atmospheric pressure at their specific airport location. This measurement is essential for determining accurate altitude readings during approach and landing procedures.

How QFE is Used

Pilots receive QFE information from air traffic control and set it on their altimeter before beginning descent. When the altimeter reads zero, the aircraft is at the airfield elevation. This makes QFE particularly useful during the final approach phase when precise altitude awareness is critical for safe landing operations. The use of QFE allows pilots to know their exact height above the airfield without calculating corrections.

QFE vs QNH

QNH is the pressure adjusted to mean sea level and is used for en-route flight planning and navigation. QFE, being the actual pressure at the airfield, is used exclusively for landing. Many countries use QNH for standard operations, while others traditionally use QFE. Modern aviation increasingly standardizes on QNH, though QFE remains important in some regions and specific procedures.

Measurement Standards

QFE is measured in hectopascals (hPa), with standard pressure at sea level being approximately 1013.25 hPa. At higher elevations, QFE values will be lower. Air traffic control stations continuously monitor and broadcast QFE values to ensure pilots have the most current atmospheric pressure data for safe flight operations in their airspace.

Related Questions

What is the difference between QFE and QNH?

QFE is atmospheric pressure at airfield elevation, while QNH is sea-level corrected pressure. QFE is used for landing altitude reference, whereas QNH is used for en-route navigation and flight planning.

How is QFE different from regular Windows updates?

QFE patches address critical issues and are released immediately when needed, outside the regular monthly schedule. Standard Windows updates are scheduled releases that address a broader range of issues and improvements on Patch Tuesday.

How do pilots set QFE on their altimeter?

Pilots receive the QFE value from air traffic control and rotate the altimeter's barometric window to set this pressure. The altimeter will then read zero when the aircraft is at the airfield elevation.

Should I always install QFE updates immediately?

Yes, QFE updates generally should be installed promptly since they address critical security vulnerabilities or severe bugs. While cautious administrators might test patches first, delaying critical security fixes carries significant risk.

Which countries use QFE for flight operations?

While QNH is becoming standard, QFE is still used in some countries including the UK and some Commonwealth nations, particularly for approach and landing procedures.

Can QFE updates be rolled back if they cause problems?

QFE updates can typically be uninstalled if they cause compatibility issues, though this is rare. Microsoft extensively tests QFE patches before release to prevent problems. If issues occur, administrators can uninstall and wait for a revised version.

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Sources

  1. Wikipedia - QNH and QFE CC-BY-SA-4.0
  2. ICAO - International Civil Aviation Organization Public Domain