"JGalban via AviationKB.com" u32749@uwe wrote in
news:82d6098e5626c@uwe:

Barry wrote:
. Everyone set QFE (altimeter reads zero on the ground) for takeoff,
then reset the altimeter to QNH if leaving the traffic pattern.
Flight levels began at 3500 feet.


Wouldn't that be impossible to do at high altitude airports, such as
in the
Alps?


What happens is that the transition level is localised. they're usually
between 3,000 and 5,000 above the local terrain, though that depends on
airspace divisions around the area and local state views and traditions.
Usually you can expect to transition around 4-5 thou above the airport
going up. In mountainous areas, minimu flight levels are dictated by the
QNH and temperature. The US is the only country I know of that has a
nationwide transition as high as 180.


Bertie

Bertie