What term is used for altitude corrections to compensate for cold temperatures?

• A. Cold Temperature Correction
• B. Hot Temperature Correction
• C. Pressure Correction
• D. ISA Adjustment

Answer: (A)

Cold Temperature Correction is the adjustment used when temperatures are colder than standard to keep altitude readings accurate. Altimeters are calibrated to the ISA atmosphere, so when the air is colder than ISA, the true altitude you’re flying at is actually lower than the altitude shown by the altimeter. That means you could be closer to terrain or obstacles than your indicated altitude would suggest unless you apply the correction. The cold temperature correction accounts for this by adjusting the altitude you plan to fly (often added to the indicated altitude) so your true altitude meets the required clearance. This is specific to cold conditions; hot temperature effects are addressed separately, and terms like pressure correction or ISA adjustment refer to different concepts not about cold-temperature effects.