Quick Facts
- Type
- Altitude Reference
- Also Known As
- AGL
- Used By
- Pilots
Definition#
AGL stands for Above Ground Level. It measures altitude relative to the terrain directly beneath the aircraft. AGL heights change as the terrain elevation changes.
Why It Matters Operationally#
AGL is used for traffic pattern altitudes, minimum safe altitudes, obstacle clearance, and VFR cloud clearance requirements. Decision heights on precision approaches are expressed in AGL.